A Message from Mayor Stimpson - April 16
Apr 16th, 2020
Good evening,
It is 9 p.m. on Thursday, April 16, and I am writing to give you an update on the City of Mobile’s efforts regarding COVID-19.
As of tonight, there are 594 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Mobile County, and 12 deaths attributed to the virus. While we are all eager to return to normal, please be aware that the data shows cases are continuing to rise and health experts warn that we are nearing the peak for the spread of this disease in Mobile.
I believe that the more we help each other, the stronger we are as a community. I am so inspired to see neighbors helping neighbors, and we are inspired to do the same in city government.
Over the last 24 hours we’ve delivered more than 3,500 test kits to area hospitals so that they may be used to test doctors, nurses and other health care professionals on the front lines of the COVID-19 battle. We’ve also delivered hundreds of test kits and protective gear to our local nursing homes.
Today we extended an offer to our neighboring communities in Mobile County to test their first responders. We’ve worked with the Mobile County Sheriff’s Department to test their deputies as well as corrections officers at the Metro Jail, where they had a recent outbreak of COVID-19.
We’re also working with our neighboring communities in Baldwin County. This week we began testing 250 employees of the Baldwin County Sheriff’s Office, and we are providing test kits to the municipalities in Baldwin County to test their first responders as well.
We may be separated by water, but we are one community and it’s important we support each other during times of crisis. We are fortunate to be in a position to help our neighbors, knowing that there may be a time in the future when we need their support in return.
A few more updates:
- Many of you responded with positive comments about the inspirational video we included in last night’s email. It showed Infirmary Health employees lining the halls and cheering as patient Ellen Nettles was discharged after beating Coronavirus. In case you missed it, I’m including the link again here because it’s just that good. https://youtu.be/tyhsTZ-f_5M
- The business of the city is continuing despite Coronavirus. Today the Mobile Planning Commission conducted its meeting online, using Zoom video conferencing. We will do the same with the Board of Adjustment and the Architectural Review Board next week. I also conducted my first virtual news conference using Zoom!
- The City of Mobile’s response to COVID-19 was recognized by writer Quin Hillyer in an article published by the Washington Examiner. Thanks to Quin for shining a light on our efforts. All credit to our team and to the citizens of Mobile who inspire us every day. You can read the article by clicking here https://www.washingtonexaminer.com/opinion/mayor-of-alabama-city-shows-how-to-lead-in-a-crisis
- The Mobile County Health Department issued an order “highly recommending” that retail employees and customers wear a protective face covering while shopping. The order takes effect at 8 a.m. Friday. Please do your best to protect yourself and your fellow citizens.
- Many of you are familiar with our great Artwalk tradition in downtown Mobile.Tomorrow night, the City and our partners are trying something innovative by going virtual. All of the participating venues, artists and musicians will create a Virtual Artwalk experience, live streamed on the City of Mobile’s Facebook page beginning at 6 p.m. I hope you’ll join us!
In closing, it may seem that the world is upside down and many things feel out of control. If you are feeling worried, remember what the Bible tells us in Isaiah 12:2 - “Surely God is my salvation; I will trust and not be afraid.”
With help from one another and love for our neighbors, we will make it through these difficult circumstances and reach a higher place together.
Sincerely,
Sandy Stimpson