(Sage Smiley / KSTK)
This post has been updated to reflect additional actions taken by the City and Borough of Wrangell.
The Wrangell Assembly will hold an emergency meeting at 4 p.m. to discuss a COVID-19-related emergency order.
Wrangell officials say it was sparked by Gov. Mike Dunleavy’s emergency alert this morning that buzzed cellphones across the state.
In a recorded video address, the governor urged Alaskans to take extra precautions to slow the spread of COVID-19 including wearing a mask when maintaining six feet apart is not practical.
He also urged people to work from home when feasible. And he suggested that businesses that serve food, switch to curbside pickup.
All of Alaska is under red alert due to rapidly rising case numbers across the state.
Within hours of the governor’s announcement, Wrangell’s EOC and administration announced closures of city facilities and offices until at least December 7. That includes City Hall, the Nolan Center, the public library, Parks & Recreation facilities, and all utility buildings. The Public Safety building will remain open for police dispatch. Municipal employees will work remotely, where possible.
Events and movies, including the planned community market at the Nolan Center this coming weekend are cancelled. The library will offer curbside service.
The agenda states the Wrangell Assembly may also take action at the meeting. Wrangell currently does have a mask mandate. Instead it encourages people to wear masks voluntarily.
Those wishing to sign up to speak can contact the borough clerk at 874-2381 or clerk@wrangell.com before 2 p.m. today.
The special Wrangell Assembly meeting at 4 p.m. will be broadcast on KSTK, available over telephone and streamed live on Facebook.
Get in touch with KSTK at news@kstk.org or (907) 874-2345.
