BY SYDNEY HOOVER
In-house dining at restaurants and libraries will remain closed in Douglas County through May 17, a local task force announced Friday.
This comes as Gov. Laura Kelly outlined her plan to enter into phase one of reopening the state Monday. Her plan included reopening libraries and in-house dining, as well as other limited businesses such as child care facilities, but gives local governments jurisdiction to continue their own stay-at-home orders as seen necessary.
After discussions with business leaders, local restaurant owners and library directors, Unified Command leaders in Douglas County decided to keep libraries and in-house dining closed for two additional weeks. Restaurant carryout, drive-thru and delivery services are still allowed.
“At this point, as we look to enact a safe and smart reopening, we believe continuing a mitigation strategy related to gatherings that can occur at restaurants and libraries is necessary to contain the coronavirus in addition to the restrictions in the Governor’s plan,” Health Officer Thomas Marcellino said in a news release.
Marcellino said advancing into new phases of reopening would rely on Douglas County residents following restrictions and continuing to practice social distancing. Douglas County Unified Command leaders do not anticipate announcing further restrictions before Monday, so any other businesses should look to the state’s guidelines on reopening.
Other businesses that will remain closed, according to the governor’s plan, include bars and nightclubs, hair salons, theaters, museums and other similar businesses.
“While we’ve seen a great amount of support for our local businesses, we realize this has been a challenging time for many. We are looking forward to the gradual and safe reopening of our economy, working with our businesses and local leadership, to ensure the health and safety of our residents, our businesses and their employees," said Bonnie Lowe, president and CEO of the Chamber of Lawrence and a member of the Unified Command reopening task force.
Since March 16, 51 Douglas County residents tested positive for the coronavirus. Of those, 39 were reported as recovered as of Thursday.
Residents can find additional guidance at douglascountyks.org/coronavirus and ldchealth.org/coronavirus.
The governor’s full reopening outline can be viewed at https://covid.ks.gov/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Reopen-Kansas-Framework-043020.pdf.
Reach reporter Sydney Hoover at eudoratimes@gmail.com.
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