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Port Arthur mayor extends 'stay-at-home' order, closes City Hall amid COVID19 concerns

Mayor Thurman Bartie said there are four more COVID-19 cases in Port Arthur, bringing that total to 13 in the city as of Friday.

BEAUMONT, Texas — Port Arthur officials are doing everything they can to stop the spread, including closing City Hall.  

Several Port Arthur city leaders attended the press conference held outside of City Hall Friday afternoon to discuss changes within the community amid the coronavius outbreak. 

Port Arthur Mayor Thurman Bartie announced an extension to the stay-at-home order that will last until April 30.

The biggest point Mayor Bartie is trying to convey to people in the community is to practice good hygiene and social distancing during this pandemic.

Mayor Bartie said there are four more COVID-19 cases, bringing that total to 13 in the city. The individuals ages range from 15 and 55-years-old. The health department said three out of four the cases appear to be travel related.

Mayor Bartie also urged those in the faith community not to attend church, despite Texas Gov. Greg Abbott's order, which allows people to go as long as they practice social distancing.

Today, Lieutenant Jeremy Houston was named the newest emergency management coordinator after Major John Owens decided to retire after more than 36 years of service.

Although Major Owens has retired, he will still help out behind the scene as the city looks to overcome this pandemic.

There are 13 confirmed cases in Port Arthur and Mayor Bartie expects numbers to climb. He added that the city may look into an order requiring residents to wear masks in the future.

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