Peabody Coronavirus: City Declares State Of Emergency

PEABODY, MA — The city will cancel all nonessential government meetings and closed all city-owned buildings through at least March 27 after declaring a local state of emergency Tuesday.

The measure is aimed at limiting person-to-person contact and following state and federal guidelines to practice "social distancing" to slow the spread of the new coronavirus. The city urged residents to use online services for routine tasks, like paying bills. "Essential" city business that needs to be conducted in person will be handled by appointment and outside of city buildings.

"While we certainly understand this situation is not ideal, we are proceeding with the well-being of our citizens and staff in mind," Mayor Ted Bettencourt said in a statement.

More information about the state of emergency, as well as phone numbers for Peabody departments, on the city's website.