Follow The Guidelines for Reopening

From our friends at Newaygo County Emergency Services

Newaygo County is a part of the MI-Safe Start Region 2 – Grand Rapids Region. We currently have 50 Lab Confirmed Positive COVID-19 cases in Newaygo County. This is almost double our cases in a two week period (since May 1st). As we proceed forward we must reopen gradually and safely. By proceeding incrementally, we can evaluate the effects of our decisions. Per the Health Department, if cases start to surge, we may need to tighten up again. If the disease is contained, we can keep relaxing. The MI Safe Start Plan will re-engage our economy carefully and deliberately to avoid a second wave of infections.
 
In order to safely re-engage, we are asking all businesses to help keep our community safe by following the District Health Department 10 public health guidance to ensure the health and safety of employees, customers, and visitors. This guidance is designed to assist community and business sectors in developing plans for reopening. Businesses, organizations, and communities are expected to participate in the control of COVID-19 in partnership with local public health departments – this may involve providing testing, contact tracing, and issuing their own quarantine process immediately, rather than waiting for local public health guidance. When sectors begin to reopen, their ability to procure necessary supplies, such as face coverings, hand sanitizer, hand washing stations, gloves, etc., must be considered.
 
Please keep in mind, under State Executive Directive 2020-6 and Executive Order 2020-91, the State of Michigan has charged each state department and agency with the responsibility for enforcing workplace health and safety standards and monitoring workplaces for compliance with rules adopted and if necessary bringing enforcement actions to ensure compliance. We strongly encourage all businesses and organizations to follow all guidance and timelines set for our Region. In addition, we encourage consultation with your liability insurance carriers for specific reopening plans developed. Businesses and organizations not adhering to the guidance in place face the risk of fines, revoking of licenses, and additional enforcement actions from the State of Michigan. We do not want to see that occur within our Community. 
 
Together, and with your help, we will move forward.  If you have any questions or need any additional guidance, please do not hesitate to contact the Emergency Services Department or District Health Department 10.

---