Linn Mayor Dwight Massey on Tuesday, March 24, issued a proclamation declaring a state of emergency for the of city of Linn.

“After consultation with city, county and state officials, it is my judgment that there reasonably appears to exist a state of city emergency which requires a response by the city to protect human life and prevent the spread of the disease at public meetings and otherwise,” Massey said. “This is a very scary time, and our biggest fear is that people in the community get sick and we are trying to limit that as much as possible.”

Massey added that he, Utilities Superintendent Larry Fredrich and City Clerk Carrie Grellner are in high-risk jobs due to their interaction with the public, which was another concern for meeting in person.

“We have three of four aldermen in a high-risk category, so if we bring them together, and then bring in someone from outside, we have a problem,” said Massey. “With this declaration of emergency, we can hold virtual meetings legally as we broadcast them digitally.”

The mayor said this proclamation is proactive because should any disaster funding be tied to the city’s preparedness, Linn will be ready.

“We want to make sure we are in a position to receive any help that is available to individuals and businesses as a result of the pandemic,” Massey said.

Citing the number of cases and deaths related to the COVID-19 virus, and the relative proximity of known cases to the city of Linn, Massey said the order, which was approved by aldermen in their meeting Tuesday, authorizes the mayor to take the following actions to protect life and property.

* To appropriate and expend funds, make contracts, obtain and distribute equipment, materials, and supplies for emergency management purposes on such terms and procedures as are necessary;

* To provide for the health and safety of persons, including emergency assistance to victims of any disaster;

* To provide for the safety of property;

* To direct and coordinate the development of disaster plans and programs in accordance with the policies and plans of federal and state disaster and emergency planning, including any natural or other type of disaster;

* To appoint, provide, or remove police personnel and other emergency operations teams, units or personnel who may serve without compensation; and in the event of disaster, to waive the provisions of statutes requiring advertisements for bids of the performance of public work or entering into contracts.

The proclamation also allows the mayor to pay the bills of the city upon the recommendation of the city treasurer, along with such other and further powers as are reasonably necessary to meet the requirements of preparing for and responding to the emergency.

This order is effective immediately and shall continue for a period of 90 days unless renewed or withdrawn.