The City of Sarasota has extended its declaration of a local citywide public health emergency through July 3 following a weekly review, as required by the city charter, in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The emergency order, issued Friday by city manager Tom Barwin, in consultation with Mayor Jen Ahearn-Koch and city attorney Robert Fournier, again strongly urges the public to wear protective masks when leaving home. Complimentary face masks will be available for pickup by residents next week, from 9 a.m. to noon Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday outside City Hall on First Street; city staff will be offering up to 50,000 free face masks to residents and visitors they encounter around the city over the next week.

Friday’s emergency order also allows for temporary street closures to continue through July 31 in order to allow additional space for outdoor dining. Future experimental street closures may be considered upon request. City buildings are open to the public by appointment only, and city business can be conducted either online or by phone at (941) 263-6000.