City of Madras Declares State of Emergency Due to COVID-19

Date:               March 25, 2020 – Immediate Release
Contact:         Gus Burril, City Administrator 541-325-0308

Madras City Administrator Gus Burril has declared a local state of emergency as a result of the COVID-19 (novel coronavirus) which will be in effect March 24^th through at least April 28^th. The Madras City Council voted to ratify the declaration at their Council meeting last night.

This declaration will provide the City Administrator with more flexibility and authorization to take actions to help protect the health and safety of the community, including limiting access to public places, and purchasing items or services related to health and safety without normal procurement procedures which can take additional time.

“This is a rapidly changing environment and it is important that we have the capability to make decisions quickly and efficiently,” stated Mayor Richard Ladeby. “This declaration should assure the public that the City is taking every precaution possible to prevent the spread of this virus in our community and make decisions with their best interest in mind.” 

“My primary focus is to restrict the spread of COVID-19 and maintain the health of our workforce so employees can continue to provide essential City services,” said City Administrator Gus Burril.  

While this emergency is in place, the City will follow executive orders of the Governor on public meetings and institute other changes that will provide assistance to local businesses and the community in getting through this event. The March 24^th Council meeting will take place with an option for Councilors, staff, and the public to teleconference to the meeting. Future Council meetings will be assessed as this public health issue unfolds. All advisory committee meetings have been canceled for the next few weeks.