City of Norwich Mayor Shawn Sastri gives an update on how the city is handling the coronavirus pandemic. (Photo by Zachary Meseck)

NORWICH – City of Norwich Mayor Shawn Sastri gave an update on how the city has been effected by the coronavirus pandemic.

"I think the community as a whole has really been impacted from local businesses and I think residents being limited with social contact and staying at home. I think it's effected the mental well-being for some of the residents. It's been a big change," said Sastri.

Helping small businesses as they open back up is one of the top priorities for the city. Sastri said the city wants to support local businesses in any way they can.

"We will be communicating with businesses on their issues, especially with businesses opening back up and what their concerns are. We'll see what the city can do to help. The city wants to work with the businesses as they reopen to make this kind of a smooth transition and try to get used to the new normal, whatever that may be," said Sastri.

According to Sastri, there are a few resources businesses can utilize as they reopen. He offers himself as a resource, as well as Kerri Green at Commerce Chenango, the staff at the county health department, and the emergency management operations center. He said if he doesn't know the answer, he will find the person who does.