Rhinelander declares state of emergency

Star Journal Report

Rhinelander Mayor Chris Frederickson declared a state of emergency Friday, March 20, in response to the coronavirus (COVID-19). This action follows Gov. Tony Evers' health emergency proclamation March 12. There are currently at least 155 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Wisconsin and two deaths have been attributed in the state to the disease.

The state of emergency will continue at least through April 17.

During the state of emergency, "it is  hereby ordered that the city of Rhinelander will make all of its resources available to adopt, implement and support all actions and recommendations of federal, state and county public health agencies."

Frederickson also ordered that Rhinelander Fire Chief will act as the emergency management director for the city during this emergency. All in-person meetings and gatherings involving city employees, staff and/or elected officials are suspended. All meetings of the common council, committees, boards and commissions may be conducted in a "safe manner consistent with the Governor's order which will likely prevent personal on-site access to the public, however, access will be granted to the public to the full extent practicable."

Additional orders include cancellation of city-sponsored events, limiting public access to city facilities, suspending city of Rhinelander business travel.