As coronavirus cases and deaths rise, Governor Jared Polis implores Coloradans to do more to stay put.
Governor Polis yesterday ordered employers at non-critical workplaces to cut their in-person workforces by at least 50 percent, told residents to go out for groceries less frequently, and advised the elderly and other vulnerable people to stay indoors unless they need medical help.
Polis’ executive order directs all employers to “implement tele-work options to the greatest extent possible”—shifting work to homes.
Polis stopped just short of an executive “shelter in place” order.
Colorado Updates
The number of new cases increased by 228 over the weekend with 591 confirmed cases in the state with 58 hospitalizations. The death yesterday of a woman in her 70’s in Weld County brought the state’s death toll to seven.
Colorado health officials have banned gatherings of 10 or more people. Schools are scrambling to conduct classes online. Restaurants are limited to only take-out and delivery service.
Over the past week, roughly 1 percent of the workers in Colorado filed for unemployment benefits.
5 Cases in Fremont County
There are now 5 probable COVID-19 cases in Fremont County. The first two cases were confirmed Thursday and three more were added Friday.
1 Case in Park County
One positive case has been reported in Park County.
3 Cases in Chaffee County
Chaffee County has reported three cases of COVID-19. The cases are under investigation and the Colorado Department of Health is contacting and working with the people who might have come into contact with them.
Preserve Critical Health Care
The Colorado Department of Public Health is asking the public to preserve critical health care resources, especially emergency medical services and personal protective equipment.
With the increased concern over COVID-19, people are calling 911 for reasons other than a medical emergency, including asking for general information about COVID-19. People should call 911 ONLY with a medical emergency.
Local Emergency Response Fund
The Salida City Council voted unanimously to challenge the larger Chaffee County community to fund the Emergency Response Fund at the Chaffee County Community Foundation.
This challenge grant would match, dollar-for-dollar, any charitable donation from the community up to $25,000. The City Council asked all local and county governments to join in this challenge.
The Salida School District was quick to jump on board, voting in a special meeting to donate $20,000 to the Emergency Response Fund.
The challenge is anticipated to raise more than $100,000 for assistance to our workforce. It is intended to provide temporary relief to individuals and families impacted by the COVID-19 pamdemic and the recent impacts to Chaffee County.
