Bolivar, TN, March 17, 2020: Mayor Julian McTizic released an official statement today regarding the reduction in city services and precautionary measures in place in response to COVID-19 (Coronavirus).
As Mayor of the City of Bolivar, I would like to communicate to our citizens that we are exercising caution, not panic, in our decision to reduce non-essential city services. At this time, the Bolivar Senior Center, Bolivar-Hardeman County Library, Bolivar Municipal Center community room, and the Bolivar Municipal Center gymnasium are all closed to the public. All other city services are on their normal operating schedules, and city administrative offices are open for routine city business.
Ongoing communication is essential during this time. I am recommending that you receive your news and information from official sources. Official communication regarding city business will be made available to the public on the City of Bolivar website and our official social media accounts.
Likewise, communication regarding COVID-19 should be obtained from official sources such as the Centers for Disease Control (www.coronavirus.gov) and the Tennessee Department of Health (https://www.tn.gov/health).
I would also like to take this time to reiterate my personal support of our local businesses and encourage you to do the same. Many local restaurants are now offering additional drive through service and/or curbside service in response to the public’s concerns and taking extra precautions to clean and sanitize their businesses more frequently. Retail establishments are also taking additional measures to ensure public health and safety. In a small town like ours, our local businesses need our support to continue to offer their services. Supporting them supports our local economy.
One of the best things about living in a small town is the fact that we take care of our own. As our senior population is at the greatest risk during this time, I encourage you to check on your senior neighbors and help them whenever possible.
As we focus on our physical and economic health in the coming weeks, let us remember to also focus on our spiritual health. If you are elderly or uneasy about attending your church services, I encourage you to take advantage of the online or radio broadcast services being offered. I am a man who places his trust and faith in God. I encourage you to look to him for support and guidance during the days and weeks ahead.
In closing, I would like to share my favorite Bible verse. It is found in 2 Chronicles 7:14 which says, “if my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land.” Let us find comfort that in the days and weeks ahead, He will heal our land.