A Special Message from City of Portsmouth Regarding the City Council Meeting on Monday, March 16, 2020

“Out of an abundance of caution, recognizing the declaration of emergency by both President Trump and Governor Sununu, Mayor Becksted and City Manager Conard have made an adjustment to the City Council meeting agenda for Monday night, March 16.

The Sagamore Avenue Sewer Extension Project Work Session and Public Comment Session will be postponed to a future date. Only the most essential and time sensitive agenda items will be heard. The modified agenda will be posted on the City website as soon as it is finalized.

The emergency measures strongly encourage people not to gather in groups.  So residents are asked to watch the City Council meeting at home on Channel 22 Comcast (live-streamed online) and not attend in person.  Thank you,” said Karen S. Conard, Portsmouth City Manager in a message to residents this morning.

The message continued:

Please be advised that the situation may change, pending additional information and updates. City Manger Karen Conard and City Health Officer Kim McNamara, with Police and Fire, are leading the City’s emergency management response and will continue maintaining regular communication with staff, community stakeholders, and state officials to stay abreast of the situation. Further updates will be provided to the community as we receive them.

We continue to encourage staff and visitors to stay home if they feel sick and to follow recommended hygiene practices. Making sure everyone is safe and healthy is our top priority.

Many of the things you do to help prevent colds and the flu can help protect you against other respiratory viruses:
• Wash your hands often with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
• Clean things that are frequently touched (like doorknobs and countertops) with household cleaning spray or wipes.
• Cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze. Use a tissue or your inner elbow, not your hands.
• Stay home if you are sick and avoid close contact with others. For more information on Coronavirus (COVID-19), please visit the U.S. CDC's website, or the NH Department of Health & Human Services Joint information Center website.

Governor Chris Sununu, the New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services and NH Homeland Security and Emergency Management have also mobilized 211NH to handle all COVID-19 related calls from New Hampshire residents. All residents with questions or concerns surrounding the COVID-19 outbreak can call 2-1-1.