San Benito COVID-19 Precautionary Measures to fight the Coronavirus
SAN BENITO -- City officials are urging citizens to take precautionary measures to stop the spread of the COVID-19 (Coronavirus) pandemic now affecting this country.
“Please be aware that there is no imminent threat, and no reason for alarm,” Mayor Ben Gomez said. “We are working strictly toward preparedness and prevention. We are in contact with Cameron County and State health agencies, as well as the Centers for Disease Control, and we will continue to monitor this situation. Please check our website at www.cityofsanbenito.com and our San Benito City Hall Facebook site to stay abreast of the latest news,” he added.
The Mayor said the City has taken some preventive measures that are effective immediately, such as the closure of the computer lab and public classes conducted at the Library.
The City has postponed all festivals and events, on City property, except City Commission meetings. While the meetings will be open to the public, they will also be live-streamed for public viewing at home.
No event permits will be issued, and those which have been issued are expected to be revoked at this time. Private events on non-city property are unaffected, unless the State Governor issues a declaration cancelling all private group events.
Recreational events such as soccer games and practice sessions scheduled this week may continue as scheduled, however, starting Saturday, March 21, all City ball fields will be closed until further notice. Restrooms and concession facilities at Stookey Park, Heavin Park and Resaca Trail, as well as other parks, will be closed starting this evening.
Some of the City’s non-essential facilities, such as the Public Library, Cultural Heritage Museum and Community Building, will be closed later this week, until further notice.
Residents are encouraged to use the drive-through lane to pay their utility bills in order to minimize contact, but the walk-up windows inside City Hall will remain open.
Essential departments such as water, wastewater, first responders, police and fire, will continue in full-force to provide needed services for the community.
Mayor Gomez is urging people to stay calm and monitor professional health sources in dealing with this matter.