Rebecca Austen, Lincoln County Health director reported today to the Board of Commissioners that the counties Covid numbers are looking good. She said they had one case today (9/21) and two over the weekend bringing the counties total to 473 total cases. There have been over 8,000 negative tests, 23 hospitalizations, and there have been 13 deaths. "Our positivity rate has dropped remarkably." Austen said. Lincoln County has met all of the metrics for opening into phase 2.
The target date for opening in phase 2 is September 29th as well as the counties 24/hour hold on room rentals. Patrick Allen from Oregon Health Authority also spoke to the commissioners. He complemented Lincoln County on their work to provide education and get the numbers down. He stated as far as he can tell the county has met all of the metrics for moving into phase 2. He did add that testing across the state has been down.
Commissioners Hall and Hunt expressed concern regarding the lower number of tests available, the fires, with firefighters working closely together and evacuees sharing space, and opening of schools are all things that need to be watched. However the commissioners all agreed that baring any significant changes the state will confirm on Thursday that the county can go to phase 2 starting next Tuesday the 29th.
Commissioner Jacobson said she felt the 24/hour hold on hotel stays should be lifted. This was approved 2-1 with commissioner Hunt voting no. Commissioner Hall also moved to extend the counties moratorium on Short Term Stays, or STR licenses in unincorporated areas of Lincoln County until December 31st. This was unanimously approved.
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