Re-opening Columbia County

COLUMBIA COUNTY–Governor Inslee signed an order re-opening Washington's economy following and during the COVID-19 pandemic on May 4, 2020. Within this order, ten counties were authorized to apply for variances that would expedite the phasing process. This County was included in that list, and an application to receive this variance and move to phase 2 was submitted to the State. Local officials were notified that the application had been approved on May 8.

Before any business may resume operations, guidelines for each business sector must be posted on the state's website at https://coronavirus.wa.gov/what-you-need-know/safe-start, and businesses must be prepared to meet the guidelines and safety precautions while conducting business.

To move forward into a gradual re-opening of the local economy and community, it is best to err on the side of caution by considering the health welfare of the town's citizens. Further, some counties in the area have not met the threshold for an early reopening. It is best to consider Columbia County first by continuing to follow social distancing standards, wash your hands, and wear your masks in public places if you can. In doing so, these efforts will minimize the spread of COVID-19 here, which will allow more businesses to resume operations.

The Columbia County, City of Dayton, Columbia County Public Health, Columbia County Health System, the Port of Columbia, and the Dayton Chamber of Commerce would like to share their greatest appreciation to the citizens and businesses of Columbia County for doing an exemplary job at limiting the spread of the coronavirus locally. It is because of those actions that afforded this county eligibility for the variance opportunity, but also the reason the community remains healthy and safe. We would also like to express gratitude to the local residents for supporting downtown businesses in creative ways during this difficult time. It is making a difference.

To access State and Federal information sources, visit Governor Jay Inslee, http://www.governor.wa.gov • Washington State Department of Health, http://www.doh.wa.gov • Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, http://www.cdc.gov

Submitted, Columbia County, City of Dayton, Columbia County Public Health, Columbia County Health System, the Port of Columbia, and the Dayton Chamber of Commerce