Medford Sees At Least 5 Coronavirus-Related Deaths

MEDFORD, MA — At least five Medford residents have died as a result of the coronavirus, city officials said. The number of positive cases rose to 176 Wednesday, according to the latest numbers from the city.

"I want to extend my deepest sympathies to the families of these residents, and to anyone who has been affected by this terrible disease. Words cannot express how saddened we are to hear about these losses," Mayor Breanna Lungo-Koehn said in a statement. "As we prepare for the expected ‘surge’ in cases in Massachusetts in the next 2 weeks, it is more critical than ever that we stay home unless absolutely necessary."

Lungo-Koehn said she does not plan to institute a curfew but is "prepared to do whatever it takes to keep our community as safe as possible and will keep all options on the table."

On Tuesday, the city extended the deadline for tax bills, applications for exemptions and excise tax bills to June 1. It also waived interest payments and other penalties on a late payment of any excise, tax, betterment assessment or apportionment, water rate, annual sewer use, or other charge due on or after March 10, provided payment is made before June 30.

Essential services such as water, trash collection or electricity may not be terminated due to a resident's failure to pay if nonpayment resulted from a "demonstrated inability to pay" due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Previous updates on the coronavirus in Medford:

Medford Schools Open Online Kindergarten Registration

Boston Sports Clubs Sued For Collecting Fees During Shutdown

Tufts Opens Residence Halls To Medical Staff, Recovering Patients

Mayor Starts #StayHomeFor Challenge