City government sets example, urges adherence to guidelines

by Marianne Gasaway

Clear Lake city leaders are urging residents to remain calm and follow state and federal guidelines to keep themselves safe and prevent the spread of COVID-19.  

Clear Lake Police Chief Pete Roth and Fire Chief Doug Meyers said they have been meeting on the issue with the Department of Public Health since Feb. 12.  “This is not something we have just started.  We urge calmness and please just stay at home if you can.”

Mayor ProTem Mike Callanan reiterated Roth’s message. “It’s very important  to take this seriously. I would also like to remind people that we have been through crisises before and we will get through this.  Post 9/11 there was fear, but people helped each other when there were unknowns and we got through it.”

  In an effort to maintain continuity of government, regularly scheduled City Council meetings, and other official board meetings with City representatives will still be held; however, the City Council chambers and other meeting venues have been reconfigured to provide for more social distancing.  City Hall will remain open and accessible to the public. However, residents are asked to limit non-essential visits to City Hall. The use of online bill pay options, sign up for automatic payments, and/or use the drop box located in the City Hall parking lot is encouraged.  City staff may also assist the public with questions or service changes over the phone at 641-357-5267.

Daily municipal operations remain unaffected at this time. Notification will be provided of any changes to City services and operations. Updates will be made using the City’s social media.