Manassas Declares State Of Emergency To Deal With Coronavirus

MANASSAS, VA — The City of Manassas declared a local state of emergency Tuesday in response to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's new guidance on avoiding contact with groups of 10 or more people to help slow the spread of the new coronavirus, or COVID-19. The city said the declaration will allow it to prioritize resources, seek intergovernmental resources, handle procurement issues, coordinate an effective response and work to help city residents respond to the crisis.

“We know folks are nervous during this crisis and we want to let them know that we are here with them through it all," Manassas City Manager W. Patrick Pate said Tuesday in a statement.

Pate instructed residents to practice social distancing methods with Manassas City Police and Fire and Rescue and avoid calling 911 when there is not an emergency. The Commissioner of Revenue is requesting residents to register motor vehicles through email or online, file and pay business licenses, meals, lodging and transient occupancy tax online or through postal mail.

As for cancellations and postponements, city council meetings have been canceled through April 1. The Manassas Regional Airshow scheduled for May 2 has been canceled as have events in Historic Downtown Manassas. The Manassas Runway 10K, 5K and fun run scheduled for April 26 has been postponed.

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The city wants residents to call ahead before coming to any city building to determine whether the request or concern can be handled by telephone or online.

During the coronavirus crisis, Manassas will not be conducting utility shut-offs. Bill payments should be made online, if possible. Trash and recycling will continue to be collected on a regular basis.

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