The City of Covington is official under a state of emergency to help city officials receive funding to fight the local COVID-19 outbreak. In just one week the COVID-19 outbreak has shut down schools, events and workplaces across Western Washington.

City Manager Regan Bolli announced the proclamation on Thursday night, March 12, according to a city press release..

“The purpose of the emergency proclamation is to allow the city to better manage and coordinate emergency efforts if needed and to continue functioning with essential city services,” the press release states.

The city canceled all parks and recreation programs and rentals, along with the closure of the Covington Aquatics Center through March 31. The aquatic center will be closed to the public and any programs, lessons, open swims and rentals are canceled for the remainder of the month, the press release states. The city’s parks and recreation department will contact anyone who has already purchased classes and programs for full refunds and credit options.

Covington City Hall will remain open, according to the press release, but public access will be limited to the foyer. The permit counter and reception desk will not be accessible but can be reached by phone. Any reservations made for the community room will be canceled for the rest of March.

“While the measures are currently effective through March 31, the city will reassess and determine if any extensions are needed as the month goes on and at the direction of Public Health department of Governor’s office,” the press release states.

Updates on COVID-19 and Covington can be found at www.covingtonwa.gov/alert_details.php.