March 19, 2020
By News Director Jared Atha
More response from local municipalities as the coronavirus pandemic continues.
In Elk City, during its regular scheduled city commissioners meeting, officials talked about the financial impact the virus is having on the city. City financial adviser Meredith Wilson says the city needs to prepare for what’s to come.
During the meeting the monthly sales tax report was given and showed a 21% drop. It was noted that due to the mass amount of shoppers at local grocery stores, there could be a spike in upcoming sales tax reports, but city treasurer Lisa Church said that the spike will more than likely be short lived.
Elk City officials also announced the closing of more city buildings including the Carnegie Library until April 4th. The library however will be offering curb side service. The Bucks Lodge will also be closed, and entrance into Elk City, City Hall will be limited to the lobby only. All transaction will take place at the front glass.
In Clinton, the city council held an emergency meeting Thursday to consider, and discuss the City of Clinton’s policy regarding COVID-19. After nearly an hour of discussing and comparing other city’s response, a resolution was passed that encouraged local restaurants to make changes to their in-house dining policies, as well as encouraging curb-side pick up. The resolution also will see the workout facility at Acme Brick Park closed, starting Friday at 8am. Mayor David Berrong stressed to the council and the audience that the city wants to educate, not mandate private businesses in the city.
City Manager Mark Skiles says although the Acme Brick Park facility is the only city owned building being closed, the resolution also stated that the city will not be taking reservations for other facilities including the Frisco Conference Center. Skiles did say that existing reservations will be honored.
