Following a chaotic week across the state, nation and world, the Monitor reached out to Concord Mayor Jim Bouley to get details on how the city is responding to the pandemic. This is where the city stands, as of late Friday.

First off, what’s it been like to be mayor during a week we couldn’t have imagined earlier this month?

It has been a whirlwind, but I am very proud of the city manager’s leadership, the city leaders and city departments for their collaborative teamwork, and in particular, our fire department for taking the lead on the emergency management plan as well as the police, general services and the human services departments, which continue to provide essential services during this crisis.

What’s the single biggest thing the city can do or has done to help ensure the safety of its residents?

City leadership made the tough decision to close many of our facilities like the community centers, libraries, golf course and City Hall, which was ultimately the right thing to do given the recommendations from New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services and the Centers for Disease Control. However, we continue to provide services with respect to motor vehicle registrations, vital records and collections through mail, online and drop off service. Our library is also offering many online access opportunities.

Any cases in which the city has had to enforce the call to limit gatherings?

All of the organizations in the city have made the decision to either cancel or reschedule their events based on the recommendations.

What role is the city playing in helping the medical community get what it needs? Has any city property come up in discussions of temporary emergency hospitals?

Our first responders have been in constant communication with Concord Hospital and N.H. DHHS on preparations should we see an influx of coronavirus patients. We are taking the steps necessary to be as prepared as possible.

What help can the city afford to provide via the welfare department or other avenues to people who’ve lost their income?

Anyone who is currently out of work should apply for unemployment benefits through the state. Our Human Services Department will continue to provide interim, emergency assistance to individuals and families who do not have the resources to meet their basic needs. Assistance can be requested via phone at 225-8575 or email at humanservices@concordnh.gov. The department recognizes these communications methods may not be applicable to all and will assess each case based on the need.

Has the city discussed limiting evictions with landlords?

An Executive Order from Gov. Sununu is temporarily prohibiting evictions and foreclosures.

What is the city doing to ensure messaging gets to the New American community? Have you heard feedback from the New American community regarding any specific concerns?

The DHHS Office of Health Equity has provided translated materials to the providers who work with New Americans. We continue to provide messaging for all groups of the population. We are responding to all groups’ inquiries as they arise and proactively communicating with organizations across the city.

Does the city plan to keep its parks open?

At this time, the parks remain open, but we are asking anyone using the parks to carry in and carry out their trash, keep their dogs on a leash, and utilize social distancing.