The Stevens County Board of County Commissioners met in special session Tuesday afternoon to discuss the COVID-19 issues. All members, Pat Hall, Joe D. Thompson and Tron Stegman were present. Also present were County Clerk Amy Jo Tharp, County Counselor Paul Kitzke, GIS Susan Schulte and RoGlenda Coulter from The Hugoton Hermes. Many other concerned members of the community were present representing the various county entities. The EMS / Fire Department, Senior Center, Library, county court system, Hugoton schools, Moscow schools, Stevens County Hospital and Manor, Economic Development, Banks, Police Department and the Sheriff’s Department were some of the departments represented.
Tron welcomed everyone. He introduced Paula Rowden as the main speaker as being the director of the Board of Health.
Paula said the virus was identified in the United States January 21 and in Kansas March 7. We now have 4,000 cases in the United States. There are possible cases as close as Ford County, Texas County, Grant County and a few counties in Colorado. The virus is spread person to person so suggestions are to establish at least six feet between people. The idea of handwashing is very important, cover coughs and do not touch your face. People who have been exposed have two to 14 days to develop the virus. Paula reminded that there are fatalities but there are more survivors than deaths. But she said don’t be mistaken, we will see it here in our community.
Paula said we have had lots of information packed in but there is lots of misinformation also out there. This has the potential to cripple local businesses. She emphasized that the Heath Department has a plan and they have things set up but the community has to help by following the suggested guidelines. A large outbreak in Stevens County is a grave concern.
Linda Stalcup told of locking down Pioneer Manor and limiting interaction of family at the hospital. These orders come from the state. All staff is screened upon coming in for work. Boyett Tablate from the hospital lab says they are begging for test kits. The reasons to test are a fever of 100.4 and over, and respiratory problems. Other problems will just be screened.
There are a lot of local people out of town now for spring break. They are urged to self quarantine upon returning home. This would be for the 14 days. It is believed this will be the most critical time frame for Stevens County.
At press time Kansas Governor Laura Kelly announced that all schools in the state are closed through the rest of the 2019-2020 school year. Superintendent Howie had already said in the meeting that there would not be a prom, graduation or sports. All practices had already been canceled. He stressed that lots of employees work through sickness – now if they are not feeling well they must not come to work.
Jack Rowden said it will probably come to pass that the banks will be limited to drive-through service.
Rodney Kelling said his departments will be checking with the different county entities to see what their needs are that they can help with. He has to send in a report to the state about all closings.
Karen Rich said the Senior Center is closed. They will be doing the meals on wheels and meals by order. These meals by order will be given out at the door, with no entrance into the center. She said the response of not being afraid is not an intelligent response to the virus. You have to think of your neighbors if not yourself.
Joe said information is pouring in but it changes fast. He feels the Commissioners have the responsibility to face the needs and support of the community. Commissioners are supposed to not meet without an announced meeting time and place but they may have to and it will just have to be ok. Amy informed that all minutes will be posted to their website: stevenscoks.org
Sheriff Heaton said they are careful to not cross contaminate new prisoners with present ones.
Paula Sosa and Kelsey Burnett said their court system will follow whatever the courthouse rules are.
After much discussion motion was made and passed to close the Fitness/Wellness Center for at least two weeks.
Following very much discussion motion was also made to close the courthouse to the public at noon Wednesday, March 18. Appointments can be made to the various offices by calling if need be. There will be signs posted on all the doors. The various meetings that were scheduled for the Memorial Hall will have to be canceled.
It was then discussed where overflow from the hospital would be sent. If it comes to it, screening can be done through the alley of the Health Department.
Many events have been postponed or canceled in the area. This includes, the Kiwanis Sale, Legislative Update and the Chamber Banquet. It was suggested that the Rec be closed for at least two weeks and possibly daycares.
Meeting adjourned.
