Linn County is among dozens of Oregon counties that have submitted an application to partially re-open amid the ongoing public health emergency.
Oregon Governor Kate Brown announced last week that counties can apply to allow more types of businesses to open on May 15, including dine-in restaurants, fitness centers, and personal care services such as salons and barber shops. The businesses would have to follow state standards for social distancing and sanitation.
To get approved for this phase, a county has to meet seven criteria, including a decline in COVID-19 cases, adequate supplies of personal protection equipment, and the ability to offer widespread testing as well as contact tracing.
Linn County’s application outlines what its leaders say is enough progress to meet those standards. When reached by KLCC, County Board Chair Roger Nyquist declined to comment on the application while it was being reviewed by the governor’s office.
According to the Oregon Health Authority, there are 103 confirmed cases of the coronavirus and eight deaths in Linn County, as of Monday.
According to the governor's office, as of Monday afternoon, applications from 24 out of Oregon's 36 counties are being reviewed.
A spokesperson for Benton County says the county submitted its application near the close of business Monday.
