As stated in previous updates, our world and our city continue to face many unknowns regarding this disease.  We will continue to make decisions relying on information as it becomes available from public health experts.  I’ve again copied the links to the CDC and MSDH below and encourage all to also follow and heed the advice of these experts. 

https://msdh.ms.gov/

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/about/index.html

While I understand that some of our citizens may view some steps as an over-reaction, we must make decisions that prioritize public health and safety.  Information available today is different than it was just 5 days ago when my initial statement was released.  While we must continue with our common-sense approach with personal hygiene and social distancing without panic, it is important that we take further steps to flatten the curve of a possible pandemic over-run of our health care facilities.  Our general plan is a strategy of statistics to minimize risks of spread by limiting mass gatherings of people.  Effective immediately, until Monday, MAY 11 and further notice, we will incorporate the following changes:

---All Park and Recreation Events (including Springfest) will be cancelled.   

---Municipal Court will continue to follow the gathering limitations of the Mississippi Supreme Court

---Board of Aldermen Meetings will continue with a request for limited attendance for only those with pending business to be discussed at the meeting.  All meetings are streamed live on the City website for remote viewing.

---Planning Commission Meetings will continue with a request for limited attendance using video conferencing.

---Water and sanitation service cut-off grace periods will be extended for delinquent accounts as well as corresponding late fees.

---In-person water payments will be limited to existing drop boxes located throughout the City and the drive-through window at City Hall.  All other payment options remain available and encouraged.

---Business license renewals are encouraged to be made at drop boxes.

---Public records requests may be made online at www.southaven.org.

---Building Department Portal use is encouraged.

All other City facilities and services will remain unchanged.  Please contact 662.280.CITY (2489) or our Citizen’s Request Tracker on the website with any questions.

The City will also adjust internal operations to minimize risks and mitigate the financial impacts of these changes.

Please be safe and remember that we are all in this one together.  We will persevere.