Oakland (Iowa) Mayor Brant A. Miller, today (Monday) extended a State of Emergency proclamation that was made April 1st. The action taken today extends the State of Emergency for 30 days, and is in response to the three positive cases of COVID-19 confirmed in the City. In his letter posted on social media, Mayor Miller said “We have been lucky thus far to have a low case count, but this can change at any time.”

He went on to say “This is a rapidly evolving situation and we should continue to be vigilant and continue to do what is in the best interest of the public. To date,” he said, “The city has done everything within [its] power to help keep [the] community safe.”

He says “Simply what this means is that I am making decisions and approving expenditures from the city budget in regard to the COVID-19 pandemic without needing council approval prior to enacting a new regulation or requirements in the city.”

After the 30 day State of Emergency Extension  expires, Miller says the situation will be re-evaluated and a determination made on further action.  In the meantime, City buildings will remain closed (including City Hall, the Oakland Community Center, Fitness and Senior Centers and Library). City Parks and Trails remain open, but playground equipment will remain off-limits. All gatherings of 10-persons or more remain prohibited in the City, and social distancing recommendations remain in effect.