Community Update from the Mayor

Mayor Broughton released this statement on Facebook today:

Wanted to check in with everyone since the State of Emergency got declared.

I can’t blame you if you’re feeling anxious. To be honest, I am too. We’ve had State of Emergencies before, for storms and floods. This is different, like nothing we’ve experienced before. There is a lot we don’t know about how this whole thing is going to turn out.

Here are some things I do know for sure. This community is a special place. We’re all on a first name basis, we’re always there for each other, and we’ll never leave each other behind. That’s why I know we can get through this.

Right now, the city is still offering all of its basic services. City Hall is closed to the public, but you can still pay utility bills online or in the drop box, get building permits. You can find out about any changes on our Facebook page, on Twitter, and at www.cityofelkinswv.com/city-blog. The police and firefighters are still on duty, and if you see them out and about make sure you say thank you.

I also want everyone to say “Thank You” to our grocery store workers, our medical workers, our truck drivers—everyone who is out there working hard to keep things going, when I know they might rather be staying home with their families. Our city workers are also still on the job and I’m very proud of what they’re doing. I appreciate everyone looking in on their friends and neighbors. You are all making a difference and we owe all of you big time. We can’t shake their hands right now, but we can say Thank You.

We can also try to support our local businesses as much as possible. A lot of restaurants are doing carryout. Please support them if you can.

At City Hall, we are staying in touch with federal, state, and local authorities. Our first priority is keeping everyone as safe as we can and continuing as many city services as possible. Elected officials, administrative officers, and staff are all doing everything they can think of to keep everybody safe.

Like I said, we don’t know exactly where this thing is going. But if we all listen to the recommendations for avoiding infection, help each other out, and remember who we are as Elkins and Randolph County residents, we will get through this.

God Bless Everyone,
-Van