EAST PROVIDENCE — Mayor Bob DaSilva has issued two executive orders, closing city buildings except by appointment only and ordering all boards and commission meetings to be held through virtual means, during the Rhode Island on Pause timeframe of November 30 through December 13.

“While it is a difficult decision to make, the COVID-19 pandemic continues to remain a serious threat to both the health and safety of not only East Providence residents, but residents in communities throughout the world,” Mayor DaSilva said. “Our buildings may be closed to the public during the pause, but our services will remain available through a number of methods.”

The orders come after Gov. Gina Raimondo issued a two-week pause limiting social gatherings to one household, indoor dining to 33 percent capacity, retail to one person per 100 square feet and the capacity at houses of worship to 25 percent capacity. Also during the two-week pause all in-person colleges and universities, bar areas, recreational venues, indoor sports facilities, gyms, group fitness, and organized sports as well as offices (when possible) are to remain closed.

The Executive Orders include the following:

• Effective Monday, Nov. 30, 2020 City Hall and all other city buildings will be closed to the public, except by appointment only.
• Residents are encouraged to use the City’s website, contact City Hall by phone at 401-435-7500, and or use the United States Postal Service to communicate, file or interact with personnel for essential City services.
• Water, tax, other payments and any other correspondence may be left in the drop box located on the Grove Avenue side of City Hall.
• Title researchers, mortgage and deed filings can be done electronically through the Office of the City Clerk and all legal and title professionals are urged to make use of these methods when dealing with land evidence or official recordings. If an in-person filing or meeting is necessary, an appointment must be made with the Office of the City Clerk by calling 401-435-7596.
• Funeral homes requiring death certificates must call the Office of the City Clerk to schedule a necessary appointment by calling 401-435-7596.
• Vital records (birth, death or marriage certificates), may be obtained online or requests may be left in the drop box outside City Hall. Allow for 24-hour processing timeframe (excluding weekends). 
• Marriage licenses may be obtained in person only. To obtain a marriage license, you must call the Office of the City Clerk to schedule an appointment.
• Probate and Municipal Court sessions will remain open during this time. Ticket payments may be paid by appointment by calling the Municipal Court Clerk at 401-435-7500 Ext. 11040 or by leaving payments in the drop box located outside of City Hall.
• Event permits will not be issued during this time.
• All boards and commission meetings will move to virtual meetings.