March 17, 2020
By Jim Eden, Assistant Fire Chief
Mayor Bill Baird has issued a proclamation declaring a state of emergency in Lee’s Summit in response to COVID-19. This 30-day declaration will help expedite emergency response efforts, allow the City to quickly procure needed resources and alter policies and processes in order to protect public health and safety.
“The declaration helps the City obtain the tools necessary to respond quickly and effectively to this unprecedented public health emergency,” said Mayor Bill Baird. “The City’s focus is on protecting the community by minimizing the transmission of the virus within the City, and providing for the continuity of operations across the City’s essential municipal services.”
“There will be some difficult days ahead as emergency procedures are implemented. We have to stick together as one and we will come out of this sooner than later,” said Mayor Baird. “We will play our role by fully implementing preventative measures. Our citizens will role model and do what’s best for our city, state and the nation.”
Citizens are reminded that the directives issued by Jackson County prohibiting gatherings of 10 or more people and the closing of restaurants, bars, taverns, clubs and movie theatres, with exceptions for delivery, pickup and drive-through service are still in effect.
The City urges everyone to take all appropriate measures to prevent the spread of this virus. According to the CDC, the most effective ways to prevent the spread of COVID-19 is to practice preventative hygiene and follow social distancing recommendations. Elderly people and those with underlying medical conditions are at the highest risk.
Residents are encouraged to seek factual, reliable information about COVID-19. Excellent sources are the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and the Jackson County Health Department. Local updates are available on the City website, cityofLS.net. The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) has a 24/7 phone hotline, which can be reached at 877.435.8411.
