March 18, 2020 Update
Thank you all for your continued support during this unprecedented challenge in American history.
According to a March 18 press release by New Mexico state health officials, there are now 28 COVID-19 positive tests in New Mexico. These positive tests have been in Bernalillo County (16), Sandoval County (4), Santa Fe County (5), Socorro County (2) and Taos County (1). Information is continually being updated, and we will inform you as soon as it becomes available. Symptoms of COVID-19 include fever, cough, or trouble breathing. If you have these symptoms, or are concerned, contact the Department of Health at 1-855-600-3453.
The Governor of New Mexico also held a press conference yesterday introducing several new emergency health orders in place. The newest health order ruled that all bars, restaurants, recreation centers and gyms now need to be closed by March 19, with restaurants still allowed to do pickup or delivery. Shopping malls, movie theaters, health clubs and spas are also directed to close. Hotels and motels are to operate at no more than 50% capacity and typical office environments have been told to limit operations. These orders go into effect Thursday and will last until they are rescinded.
From the City’s end, this means that the Riverwalk Recreational Complex, the North Mesa Senior Center, the San Jose Senior Center, the Carlsbad Municipal Library, the Carlsbad Museum & Art Center, the Lake Carlsbad Golf Course, the Bob Forrest Youth Sports Complex, the Will Merchant Complex, the Shooting Range, the Walter Gerrells Performing Arts and Exhibition Center, the Pecos River Village Conference Center, the Rio Pecos Tennis Complex and the Carlsbad Water Park will all have to be closed at this time in order to remain in compliance with this order.
We will still be serving seniors meals at the San Jose Center through drive thru or pickup. Water service and other utilities will not be interrupted. Transit services remain operational.
We are evaluating all policies in terms of our city offices, such as city hall and our planning department. We are closing our cashier’s office, but payments can be made by mail, drop box, drive-thru or by calling 1-877-562-1649. Please visit our Facebook page and COVID-19 web page for regular updates. We are doing everything we can to keep you informed as things are rapidly developing.
Carlsbad Municipal Schools will continue to provide free meals to children at its distribution points. However, the schools have had to put some limitations in place due to the high demand and a desire to not have to turn people away. If children are not present, no more than four meals will be provided to a car.
The State of New Mexico also reminded everyone that it is essential that New Mexico maintains sufficient amounts of medical supplies, including personal protective equipment for health care staff and COVID-19 test kit materials. Residents without symptoms do not need testing for COVID-19.
Our medical professionals are working so hard to protect and treat our public. According to the state, workplaces should not mandate that employees get tested for COVID-19 unless employees are displaying symptoms: fever, cough or shortness of breath.
We have been in continual contact with all local governmental organizations to make sure that issues are being addressed promptly and correctly. Yesterday, the Carlsbad Chamber of Commerce released an updated list of local restaurants who are remaining open for carry out. This list is being posted on the Chamber’s web page and will be updated regularly. Please continue to support these establishments.
Sincerely,
Carlsbad Mayor Dale Janway