Normally there is an editorial from Mayor Joseph A. Curtatone in this space, but this week the City is instead sharing important information and updates about COVID-19.

 Updates on City Closures, Event Cancelations, and Tax Payments

City buildings are closed through May 4, but many City services are still available. To find out which services are still available, click the “City Services Status” tab at www.somervillema.gov/coronavirus. You can also 311 for more information. City-sponsored events and events that are permitted by the city are canceled through June to help control the spread of COVID-19.

To help alleviate financial impacts from the pandemic, Mayor Curtatone has ordered that residents and property owners be given extra time to pay their property tax. Property tax bills, which would otherwise be due on May 1, may now be paid by June 29 without interest or penalty. For excise tax and water bills, the City’s Treasury Department will not charge any interest or penalties for bills with a due date of March 10 or later, as long as they are paid by June 29. However, because taxes and water and sewer fees fund essential services, residents and homeowners who are able to pay on time are encouraged to do so.

CARE Act

The CARE Act is recently-passed federal law that directs $2 trillion in funding to COVID-19 relief. The CARE Act is wide reaching and includes help for individuals and businesses. Assistance for individuals includes direct cash payments, an expansion of who is eligible to apply for unemployment, and student loan relief. Help for businesses includes Paycheck Protection Program loans, the Small Business Debt Relief Program, and some small business tax provisions. Details on some of these programs are still being finalized, so keep an eye out for more information.

To learn more about what the CARE Act provides for individuals, as well as other resources available through the City and other organizations, visit www.somervillema.gov/coronavirushelp. Business owners should visit www.somervillema.gov/covidbizhelp for business-related support.

Staying Informed During COVID-19

The City’s COVID-19 website, www.somervillema.gov/coronavirus, is updated frequently with public health information as well as resources and supports. On the website you can find information about applying for unemployment; the CARE Act, a new federal law that directs $2 trillion in funding to COVID-19 relief efforts; low-cost internet access; and more.

Here are some additional ways you can stay informed:

• Sign up for City alerts at www.somervillema.gov/alerts or by calling 311. You can choose to get phone, text, and/or email alerts.
• Tune in to City Cable (RCN channel 13, Comcast channel 22) for information and updates.
• 311 is available 24/7 to answer questions and provide information.