Cities across the Treasure Valley declared a state of emergency today in response to the coronavirus.
Leading the way, was the city of Boise, which announced a closure of all city facilities except the airport.
And Mayor Lauren McLean said this is a huge test of the true character of our community, "Public access to all city facilities except the airport will cease until further notice...It's important we come together to protect those in the community that are the most vulnerable and demonstrate that to people and our sense of connection will be the strength that moves us through this."
So, the zoo, city hall, the libraries, public golf courses, ice world, all closed until further notice. Future issues will be handled online as much as possible as staff will be on hand as will police and fire forces. McLean says if you're going stir crazy, the less vulnerable should get out, "And so we've got lots of fresh clean air and open spaces and parks in our city and I'd encourage everyone to take advantage of outside time."
So, the zoo, city hall, the libraries, public golf courses, ice world, all closed until further notice. Future issues will be handled online as much as possible as staff will be on hand as will police and fire forces. McLean says if you're going stir crazy, the less vulnerable should get out, "And so we've got lots of fresh clean air and open spaces and parks in our city and I'd encourage everyone to take advantage of outside time."
The state of emergency declaration by cities allows them to free up city resources and seek reimbursement when the crisis clears.
McLean also urged people to not stockpile groceries and supplies.
In her words, "we all need toilet paper."
And the nation's biggest retailers say they'll have no problem replenishing most supplies.
