Special to Iredell Free News

In response to the Executive Order issued by Gov. Roy Cooper restricting large gatherings and strong appeals to limit person-to-person contact to prevent spread of the novel coronavirus, city officials have canceled the Statesville City Council meeting scheduled for Monday, April 6.

City staff is making preparations to hold future council meetings electronically that would adhere to North Carolina’s open meetings laws.

Playgrounds and Public Restrooms Closed in City Parks

In an effort mitigate any unnecessary spread of germs, city officials have also decided to close all playgrounds and public restrooms in city parks.

“We want people to have the ability to get out in the fresh air as a healthy outlet during this stressful time,” city officials said in a news release. “However, we encourage citizens to stick to individual activities such as running, walking, and biking while maintaining a safe distance (at least 6 feet) from others.”

Residents who have any symptoms, feel sick, or have been exposed to someone else with symptoms is urged to stay home.