Glenn County Phased Reopening Plan

This week the Governor announced that the state will be moving to “Stage 2” or allowing some businesses to open later this week. Residents have expressed confusion about what that means, and shared mixed feelings about reopening.  It’s realized that the county must find the right balance between keeping the local economy and businesses stable, and protecting the public’s health. The county has provided information and guidance to clarify the current status in Glenn county, and what this means for you, and our communities. 
Q. What is the current status for Glenn County? 
A. Glenn is currently under the statewide stay at home order. It is anticipated that the Governor will allow partial reopening of businesses later this week.  

• The Glenn County Phased Reopening Plan describes the reopening phases and offers guidance for businesses and gatherings. https://www.countyofglenn.net/dept/health-human-services/public-health/covid-19/covid-19-guidance-and-resource-documents

Q. What if cases rise after reopening?
A. When the Governor releases counties to move to Phase 2, (expected on Friday May 8), some businesses will be allowed to reopen.  Testing and monitoring will continue. If no further spread of the COVID-19 occurs, the next stages of the plan will occur after a few weeks of testing showing containment. If there is an increase in cases, that may limit or delay reopening.  

Q. What does reopening mean, do we continue distancing?
A. With some businesses reopening, the risk of COVID-19 continues, and it is imperative that all residents practice physical distancing and responsible precautions as they have during Phase1, (the stay at home order) until a vaccine is identified. Follow the below guidelines as you have: 
A.    Stay home except for essential needs/activities. 
B.    Practice physical distancing – stay 6 feet away from people.
C.    Wear a cloth face mask if you leave home.
D.    Wash hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
E.    Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces daily. If surfaces are dirty, clean them using detergent or soap and water prior to disinfection.
F.    Avoid touching eyes, nose or mouth.
G.    Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue or your elbow or a tissue. Wash hands afterwards.
H.    Avoiding close contact with people who are sick.
I.    Stay home and away from people if you become sick with respiratory symptoms like fever and cough.
J.    If you smoke or vape, consider quitting. Smoking and vaping causes harm to the lungs.
K.    Follow guidance from public health officials.
L.    Please consult with your health care provider about additional steps you may be able to take to protect yourself.

The Governor may release public health guidance for certain “Stage 2” sectors to reopen on May 8, 2020. The Governor indicated that he will also provide guidance and requirements for counties to move more quickly through Stage 2. While this guidance is not yet available, it appears that the county will need to submit a local readiness plan and that the county must attest it meets the state’s readiness criteria.

On Friday, May 8, 2020 at 3:00 pm the Board will hold a Special Board Meeting to learn from the Public Health Officer and the Office of Emergency Services whether the county may meet the readiness criteria and what the county readiness plan will look like. At that time the Board may take actions related to these topics.