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Western New York municipalities declare state of emergencies

Buffalo, Amherst, Tonawanda and Orchard Park are among the communities taking action in an attempt to limit the spread of coronavirus, also known as COVID-19.

ERIE COUNTY, N.Y. — The City of Buffalo and the towns of Amherst and Tonawanda declared a state of emergency in an attempt to limit the spread of coronavirus, also known as COVID-19.

Buffalo Mayor Byron Brown announced the state of emergency during a news conference late Sunday afternoon.

He said city-owned and operated senior centers will be open, but with social distancing measures in effect.

Daily city hall tours have been suspended until further notice and the city's observation deck is closed.

Mayor Brown also stressed that bars and restaurants must comply with the 50 percent capacity limit, as set by Gov. Andrew Cuomo, which will be enforced. He said a lack of compliance could ultimately result in the loss of liquor licenses.

"This is a serious health situation, and we're asking people to have the discipline to follow social distancing," Brown said.

Amherst Supervisor Brian Kulpa made the announcement Sunday morning. That decision "renders all required and available assistance to the security, well-being, and health of the citizens of the Town of Amherst."

The town will now scale back government operations, and its Emergency Operation Center is now active.

The Amherst Town Board meeting is still scheduled for March 25, though it will be held without public hearings or public attendance. It will be restricted to town personnel and some required officials.

Other meetings and public hearings will be postponed for the next 30 days, according to a statement.

The Town of Tonawanda also declared a state of emergency on Sunday.

Supervisor Joesph Emminger said the action took effect at 3 p.m. Sunday and will last no longer than five days.

A state of emergency was also declared in Orchard Park, where the senior/community activity center will remain closed until further notice, starting at 8 a.m. Monday.

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