March 30, 2020
Dear Residents:
This has certainly been a time like no other. Tomorrow begins a full week we have acted under Governor DeWine’s Stay At Home Order. This order has changed the way we live each day and many have been particularly affected. My heart is with each and every one of you that is experiencing hardships from this unprecedented time.
I want to thank everyone who is doing their part to help to reduce the effects and spread of the pandemic. At the City, we’ve had to make difficult decisions such as closing City buildings to the public and closing the playgrounds and skate park. Thankfully, we are still able to enjoy other aspects of our parks with proper social distancing. It has been wonderful to see individuals and families’ enjoying the outside as the weather has permitted. The nice weather has come just in time as we all have been feeling a bit of cabin fever.
Like other essential businesses, we continue to provide day-to-day services, but put measures in place to improve the safety of our employees. We are particularly appreciative of our Police, Fire, EMS, Electric, Streets and Water/Sewer Departments for working over the weekend during and after the heavy thunderstorms.
Governor DeWine has recently discussed the upcoming need for additional hospital beds to accommodate the anticipated patients from COVID-19. Several have wondered about the potential of available space at the Summa Wadsworth Rittman Medical Facility. The City has not owned the community hospital since the 1960s, and hence, does not have the ability to direct the operation or usage of the facility. Nonetheless, it is certainly a resource in the community and especially valuable in times like this.
We do know that much planning is taking place around the state to accommodate this upcoming need for extra hospital beds. The health community is working together and is well aware of opportunities, including the Wadsworth Rittman facility, for space. In communicating with Summa Health, they commented that like all healthcare organizations, they are implementing plans across their system to accommodate an expected surge in patients. They are evaluating all options and are working with their regional health system partners to ensure their communities have enough capacity.
It has been heartwarming to see and to hear about the numerous acts of kindness performed throughout the community. All I can say is keep up the good work! Organizations, groups, businesses, churches, families, and individuals are thinking about what they can do to help others in their time of need and taking action. Thank you for all you are doing. This is what makes Wadsworth the wonderful community it is.
Stay healthy and safe,
Robin Laubaugh
Mayor