Town of Black Mountain statement on coronavirus

Note: The following is a press release issued March 13 by the town of Black Mountain regarding the novel coronavirus, COVID-19:

Citizens and Visitors of Black Mountain:

As communities begin to feel the impact of the coronavirus (COVID-19), The Town of Black Mountain would like to share with you the steps we are taking to help protect the health and safety of our citizens and employees, which is always our top priority.

We are closely monitoring local and national reports on the evolving impact of COVID-19. Based on guidance from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), the World Health Organization, the Buncombe County Department of Health and Human Services, and other applicable public health agencies, we've developed contingency plans and are taking the proper recommended precautions. In all Town facilities, we have added extra sanitation measures including daily disinfecting of surfaces, we are encouraging frequent hand washing and we have implemented social distancing policies and employee travel bans aimed at protecting the health and well-being of our teammates and the public. We have canceled all advisory board and commission meetings for the next thirty days and will closed all Town operated facilities to the public beginning at 4:30 p.m. on Monday, March 16, 2020. Facilities will remain open for official business with very limited public access. Please follow any directional signage in place at each location. Mayor Don Collins has issued an emergency directive under the authority of the Town's State of Emergency Proclamation that all water to inhabited residences presently turned off, be turned back on and to suspend disconnections of residential water service until the crisis has passed. Customers will remain responsible for their bill but service will not be disconnected at this time.

We realize that you depend on us, and we are committed to serving our citizens. The Town's mission is simple, yet powerful: Provide quality services to protect the health, safety, and welfare of our citizens.

We feel deeply for those who have been affected already. The Town of Black Mountain is here to help in any way possible. Again, the health and safety of our citizens and employees is our top priority, and we are committed to doing our part to help keep Black Mountain safe.

Signed: Josh Harrold, Town Manager