Mayor Mitchell Declares State of Emergency in New Bedford
October 28, 2012 4:48 PM 
New Bedford Mayor Jon Mitchell has declared a Local State of Emergency in the city, and is closing New Bedford Public Schools Monday.
Mitchell has also instated a voluntary evacuation for residents of the South End and low-lying areas. Keith Middle School on Hathaway Blvd. and Pilgrim Church on Purchase St. downtown will serve as pet-friendly shelters for those looking to evacuate their homes.
Mitchell says Hurricane Sandy has the potential to pack a punch to the Southcoast.
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The hurricane barrier is closed as of 5am Monday, with the floodgates on West Rodney French Blvd. and Cove Road closing if flooding becomes a threat.
City offices are also closed Monday, with only essential staff members reporting to work.
Garbage pick-up in the city is also being delayed by two days.
Mayor Mitchell will hold another press conference Monday at 2:30pm, and will determine if schools will remain closed Tuesday along with other information.
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