City Sightings Public Safety Parade This Week

To them, it’s about thanking all of us for doing our part, by staying home and practicing social distancing to limit the spread of the coronavirus and help flatten the curve.  For us, it’s an opportunity to show our support and appreciation for their service and for going above and beyond throughout this challenging time.  And, right about now we could all use a little fun and community spirit.

Inspired by suggestions from some of our residents, this week’s City Sightings public safety parade is modeled after our annual Santa Sightings on the fire truck in December.  City vehicles from Fire, Police and Public Works will visit a different neighborhood each day this week, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.  Be sure to keep an eye out for them and wave hello when they pass by!

COVID-19 Emergency Response Update

In Monday night’s telephonic City Council meeting, the City Manager presented to Council and the public the latest update on our ongoing response to COVID-19.  He highlighted the good work being done by the employees from various departments who fill particular roles in our emergency management structure, which are often different from their usual responsibilities.  Though COVID-19 is unique in a lot of ways, our experience in past emergencies is certainly helping us in this one.  I encourage you to listen to the complete recording of the presentation to learn more.

The City’s priorities in the response are focused on communication, keeping employees and the public safe, staying informed of decisions being made by others that impact us, and being prepared for an uncertain future.

Coming Together as a Community (While Staying Apart)

This temporary “new normal,” in which not only the adults are working from home but the kids are, too, is positively surreal.  We never imagined, for example, having to remind our young children of their scheduled videoconferences throughout the workday.  For a bit of exercise and fresh air, and to keep from climbing the walls, we’re getting outside more often as a family for walks around the neighborhood.  We’ve enjoyed running into many of you out on the street (but at a safe distance), reconnecting with friends and making new ones.  It’s obvious from those conversations that we’re all in this together, and also how much we value our togetherness as a community.