Gov. Laura Kelly on Thursday evening presented her detailed framework for a phased-in approach to begin allowing some businesses to reopen once her stay-home order expires at 11:59 p.m. Sunday. The Governor’s plan enables counties to be more restrictive than the executive order she has issued. 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 weeks through May 17.
In addition to the local order that keeps libraries and in-house dining at restaurants closed, the Governor’s plan prohibits mass gatherings of 10 or more people. You can review the full Governor’s plan for details and this reopening guidance by industry. Anyone with questions about a public health order can email phorders@ldchealth.org.
Here are some other FAQs and our guidance for "Smart and Safe: Reopening Douglas County"
What phase are we in? How long will it last?
Phase 1 will begin May 4 and will last for at least two weeks. After that, phasing will depend on measures of local and statewide rates of transmission, hospitalizations and public health system capacity, with each phase lasting a minimum of two weeks. Please visit https://douglascountyks.org/coronavirus for information about the current phase and guidelines.
Can I gather in large groups now that the stay-at-home order is lifted?
Each phase has a limit on how many people can gather in one space at a time. For Phase 1, that is limited to 10 people, as it has been during the stay-home order. We encourage you to continue to keep six feet of distance between you and other individuals in public spaces and to keep your circle of close contacts small. It is also highly recommended you wear a mask or cloth face covering if you venture into public, especially in places where it is difficult to keep a six-foot distance from others.
What businesses are still closed in Phase 1?
All gyms, fitness centers, swimming pools, community centers, bowling alleys, movie theaters, museums, indoor leisure spaces, summer camps, sporting events, entertainment venues, hair salons, nail salons, tattoo parlors, tanning salons, massage parlors and libraries will remain closed in Phase 1. Restaurants and bars may continue delivery/carryout services as they have been under the stay-at-home order.
In what ways is the Douglas County order different than the Governor’s order?
For the most part, Douglas County will follow the guidelines of the governor’s order. However, local leadership has decided it is in the community’s best interest to restrict dine-in services at restaurants and to keep libraries closed for Phase 1. This decision was made based on input from the interested industries and will allow public health to offer specific guidance and assist in preparation for a safe re-opening.
When will restaurants be able to reopen for dine-in business?
Restaurants will be able to reopen for dine-in business, with some restrictions, beginning in Phase 2. Please see the guidance for more details.
When will pools reopen?
Pools will be allowed to open beginning on June 1, with restrictions on how many people can be in the space at one time that are in accordance with the mass gathering restrictions of each phase, as well as measures to encourage social distancing.
Is dog grooming allowed?
Dog grooming is allowed however, it is encouraged that businesses maintain social distancing and hygiene standards including curbside drop-off and that they operate by appointment only.
What type of mask should I wear? What if I need a mask but don’t have one?
For the general public, a cloth face covering is recommended in all businesses and public places. Please see CDC guidance on making and wearing a cloth mask. Please reserve medical-grade surgical masks and N95 masks for healthcare workers. Anyone who needs a mask can request one from the United Way at http://rhvc.galaxydigital.com/cloth-masks/
Should I plan a large event for this summer?
It is likely that we will experience a phased relaxing of the mass gathering limits over the course of the next several weeks and months. However, the limit and the phase that we are in will depend on local and statewide rates of transmission, hospitalizations, and public health system capacity. It is wise to assume that it will be difficult to plan large events with certainty through the summer months.
If I live in one county and work in another, which guidance should I follow?
Because local health orders are designed based on the current level of exposure of COVID-19 in a county, in general, you should follow the guidance from your home county. For example, if there is a stay-at-home order in your home county, but not the county where you work, you should continue to follow the stay-at-home order. However, if your place of work is open and your home county’s rules allow you to go to work, your place of work may be subject to local rules and guidelines, which you should follow while working there.
Are dental offices allowed to open for non-emergency procedures?
Dental offices may open, as long as they have sufficient PPE to safely perform procedures and ensure protection for themselves and their patients. Dental offices may choose to offer emergency services only if they feel that is the most appropriate course of action.