PEABODY — It was a banner day Tuesday at City Hall.
Mayor Edward A. Bettencourt Jr. signed an executive order rescinding the State of Emergency he issued on March 17, 2020 in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
“Our community and our country have been through so much during the past 15 months, but we persevered,” said Bettencourt. “The latest data from the Health Department shows that we have turned a remarkable corner in our pandemic response here in Peabody.”
The rate of new COVID-19 cases and the percentage of positive tests are at their lowest rates in the city since October 2020. More than 63 percent (35,237 people) of Peabody residents have received at least one dose of vaccine, while 56 percent (31,153 people) are fully vaccinated.
“It is a great tribute to our dedicated city workers who adapted to changes brought on by the pandemic to help keep our city safe and operational,” Bettencourt said. “Their contributions during these difficult times are immeasurable and we are forever grateful to them.
“I want to make special mention of the Peabody Health Department; Sharon Cameron, her outstanding team of nurses, administrators, and countless volunteers who stepped up when our city needed them most,” he added.
Bettencourt also recognized Peabody’s first responders, including the men and women of the police and fire departments and Atlantic Ambulance.
“(They) deserve great credit for the skill and professionalism they demonstrate every day on our behalf,” Bettencourt said. “I also want to thank Peabody residents and business owners for their willingness to follow CDC guidelines to help reduce transmission of COVID-19 and then to get the vaccine when it was their turn.”
Bettencourt said, as of Tuesday, 325 city residents have died from COVID-19.
“Together we mourn the loss of 325 Peabody residents who have succumbed to COVID-19 and we offer our heartfelt sympathy to their families,” Bettencourt said.
Bettencourt’s Chief of Staff Chris Ryder said the city is still reminding residents who are not fully vaccinated to continue to observe safety protocols. State guidelines still require that masks be worn on all public transportation and in medical facilities, he said.
“Since the beginning of the month, masks have not been required for fully-vaccinated individuals inside of City Hall, including employees and the public, but the city is continuing to request visitors and employees who are not vaccinated to wear masks and maintain social distancing,” said Ryder.
