I’d like to give an update on what is going on in the City in response to the ongoing virus reaction activities:

First, neither the Governor nor us has issued a mandatory wearing of gloves and a mask while out in public. However, it is a very good idea to do so if you can. Even a handkerchief or bandanna around your nose and mouth will help control the spread and infection rate of the virus.

We still do not know when the current restrictions will be altered or lifted. Please be patient as everyone is going through the same restraints, especially businesses trying to enforce the new social distancing restrictions in Governor Cooper’s Executive Order #131. 

PLEASE continue social distancing actions wherever you are as much as possible. 

Please check out our City of Roanoke Rapids Government Facebook page for virus information, videos, and other news.

Anyone can text COVIDNC to 898-211 for text updates about the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. It has a lot of information you can use and answers your questions about a number of topics, to include things like health insurance, food assistance and how you can donate blood (a critical need right now!). You can also go to https://www.nc211.org for the information.

You can go to the Internal Revenue Service website, www.IRS.gov for questions about the status of your Economic Impact Payment (stimulus check), coronavirus tax relief, refund status and other topics.

We continue to provide full-service trash/refuse pickup with our dedicated employees. Be sure to give them a smile and a wave when you see them out and about, as they provide a service that is vital but few of us want to do! Also, our Police and Fire Departments are fully staffed and prepared to provide effective public safety services whenever needed. 

Finally, please complete your Census 2020 information request! The amount of Federal financial aid the City and County receives is directly based on the Census information. It is only 9 questions and can be completed online, in the mail, or by phone. Right now, only 42% of Halifax County has self-reported their Census information, ranking 52nd out of our 100 counties.