SAN ANGELO, Texas — San Angelo Mayor Brenda Gunter released a statement Thursday afternoon regarding the state of the City ahead of Phase One of Gov. Greg Abbott's plan to slowly reopen the state.
"On Monday, April 27, Governor Abbott announced that restrictions placed on businesses in Texas would be loosened as part of an effort to reopen the state amidst the COVID-19 pandemic.
The local health authority rescinded several of his orders to be in line with the governor’s executive order. We also have extended our declaration to follow Governor Abbott’s direction.
While we wish there were no deaths at all, it’s important to note that Texas has had far fewer deaths related to COVID-19 than most other states in the United States.
We know that businesses are hurting. We want everything to return to normal, but we also want to be safe and smart about reopening everything. In accordance with the governor’s executive order, beginning this Friday, May 1, retail stores, movie theaters and restaurants will be allowed to reopen to the public, provided that occupancy is limited to no more than 25 percent. The governor emphasized that the State is giving permission for these businesses to open, but not requiring anyone to do so. If a business feels uncomfortable opening, then they may remain closed. Keep in mind that gyms, bars, hair and nail salons and tattoo parlors are still closed at this time.
After another couple of weeks, the situation will be reevaluated. If case numbers do not hit a spike, then restrictions may loosen further.
That being said, we must all remain vigilant in our efforts to stop the spread of this disease. Those who are able should keep working from home. Everyone should be washing their hands for 20 seconds, often, and using hand sanitizer when handwashing is not possible. Continue to stay at least six feet from people outside your household and do not congregate anywhere. Cough into your elbow or sleeve. Masks are not required, but we do recommend wearing them when you are out.
While our Health Department continues to investigate all positive cases, we are also monitoring large employers in the community to make sure they are following all the safety protocols and making sure that if individuals are sick, then they are sent home so they do not spread disease.
The numbers that are included in our daily reports are provided to us by the Health Department. All of these numbers have been verified in a lab and reported to the Health Department. In addition, we investigate all rumors of reported cases that are not yet confirmed by a lab.
Today we passed an order that continues the declaration of disaster in the City of San Angelo. Of particular note in the order is the reopening of the KOA walking trail on Hillside Drive. Parking will be limited to prevent congregating. This will take effect Monday, May 4, at midnight. The order also allows the City to continue to waive late fees for water utility payments through May 31.
For more information, visit cosatx.us/covid19.
The smarter we are about this, the safer we will be. We will get through this."