Memphis Mayor Jim Strickland declared a state of emergency on Tuesday, allowing the city to respond to the local coronavirus outbreak with the aid of state and federal funding.
The Health Department announced Shelby County's third confirmed case of COVID-19 also on Tuesday. The individual is a non-resident traveler who officials believe did not contract the virus locally.
In a statement, Strickland sought to assuage fears that basic supplies are running low locally. The mayor said local grocers “have plenty of food and supplies in store or on the way” and encouraged younger community members to shop for elderly neighbors and family.
“I know many of you are concerned about getting your groceries, and making sure you have everything you need,” he said. “I am asking that when you do grocery shop, please only get what you need. There is no need to hoard.”
Strickland has not ordered restaurants and bars to close as other mayors across the county have done.
Still, federal guidelines recommend not gathering in places where there are more than 10 people, and restaurants across the city have reported a dip in customers.
The mayor encouraged people to patronize local restaurants by placing to-go orders. The city is allowing people to park in front of restaurants without paying the meter. However, rules for restricted parking areas still apply.
Gov. Bill Lee declared a state of emergency in the state last week.
This post orginally said the mayor issued the statement on Thursday. It has been corrected to Tuesday.