News Flash

Sept. 5, 2019 - I am writing to give you an update on Hurricane Dorian and its expected impacts in our community. While we do not expect much impact today, we will gradually see increasing winds, rain and storm surge over the next 24+/- hours. Winds will pick up around 1 am Friday morning in the 30 mph sustained range. By 7 am, and through 2 pm, we are expected winds in the 40 mph sustained range, with gusts in the 50-55 mph range. Our highest tide is expected to be tomorrow at 4 pm, and is predicted to be in the 7 feet range. To give context, this is similar to what we experienced in 2012 with Hurricane Sandy.

Accordingly, earlier today I began encouraging residents who live in Zone A to consider voluntary evacuation. Other cities throughout the region are doing the same. We will be opening shelters at 5 pm this evening for residents who want to evacuate but do not have anywhere else to go.

With all of this in mind, I have decided to close all non-emergency essential operations tomorrow. As I have mentioned before, the safety of our employees and residents is paramount. Human Resources will separately send out a communication for how to manage this day off in the Kronos timekeeping system as well as addressing other questions you might have about the time off.

As a precautionary measure, please check your work areas before leaving today to ensure that all items are removed from the floor or away from windows if necessary to avoid possible wind or water damage. I would like to give a huge shout out to all our employees who have been preparing our city for the arrival of the storm. We have such an amazing team of professionals throughout all of our departments. We are as ready as any city can be! Once the storm has passed, we will assess any damage, determine the need for recovery efforts and identify ways you can assist as needed. For those of you who will be working throughout the event, please stay safe!

Mary

P.S. Thanks to those of you who have shared First Day of School pictures with me! I truly love seeing those smiling faces! I will respond to each of you as soon as time permits. Right now, we are focusing on the storm. Again, be safe!