March 16, 2020 2:00 p.m.
On Monday, the Douglas County Board of Commissioners passed a resolution ratifying the declaration of a State of Emergency for Douglas County that was declared in the county on Saturday in order to combat the spread of the novel coronavirus, COVID-19.
A release said it was made official at the Monday morning weekly work session. In according with Oregon law, “the Board finds that conditions of extreme peril to the health and safety of the citizens of Douglas County, have arisen within the county, caused by the COVID-19 emergency”.
The release said the emergency declaration will allow the county to take all necessary steps authorized by law to respond to the COVID-19 emergency, allow increased flexibility in how services are managed to ensure resources reach local citizens, and “to continue to make the safety of our citizens our top priority”. It said that includes, but is not limited to limited authority to waive normal bid contracts, expediting the allocation of county funds to those assisting in the containment of this disease, and to devote all county necessary resources in order to take immediate action.
Board Chair Chris Boice said that Commissioners have been working diligently with local and state health officials “to meet the ongoing threat of the coronavirus”. He said they will continue to provide assistance and support to local health partners who he said are “working tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure the health and safety of our citizens”.
The release said citizens who are feeling reasonably well, might not need to visit a clinic or hospital, which allows providers to focus on patients who most need care. Residents should call 911 only if the situation is an actual emergency.
The release said residents are encouraged to follow the recommended guidelines for public exposure, which are to maintain a distance of six feet, maintain good hygiene and to stay home if sick. Those that are the most vulnerable to the severe conditions of COVID-19 include the elderly and people with a history of health conditions, need to take extra precautions to stay safe and healthy.
Douglas County Commissioner Tim Freeman and County Health Official Dr. Bob Dannenhoffer, will talk more about the situation on Inside Douglas County Tuesday, on News Radio 1240 KQEN.