May 6, 2020 |
County Commissioners yesterday discussed ways to reopen the courthouse and the Carbon Building in Rawlins to the general public. The two government office buildings were closed by resolution at the beginning of the coronavirus outbreak in March. The board will have to pass another resolution to reopen them.
The commissioners discussed a flexible approach that puts an emphasis on personal responsibility rather than traffic control, as other counties are implementing.
Commission Chair John Johnson said the buildings could reopen using social distancing guidelines and other practical measures to keep the staff and the public safe.
County offices that conduct regular business with the public have been equipped with protective shields now common in grocery store checkout lanes.
Other offices have expressed a desire not to open their doors at this time. Chairman Johnson said he is willing to accommodate their request.
The chairman did not single out the offices that wished to keep their doors closed. Johnson did say that the Rawlins branch of the county library system, which is located in the Carbon Building, should prepare to open.
Commissioner John Espy agreed with keeping a loose hand on the reins as county offices begin to get back to life as normal.
The big issue was whether or not to require county employees to wear face masks when dealing with the public. Although the county building has been closed, people have been showing up with questions for staff or to conduct business.
The County Clerk said members of her staff have used masks when assisting people outside the courthouse. Chairman Johnson asked Clerk Gwynn Bartlett if face masks should be required.
Commissioner Sue Jones cautioned against making the wearing of a face mask a requirement to work in the county building.
Commissioners agreed to recommend face masks for staff, but not to require them.
The discussion ended with the board instructing the county attorney to draft a resolution that is nimble enough to be adapted if public health conditions warrant. It will go into effect, and the courthouse will reopen, the day after it is signed. That date has not been announced.
Photo by Cali O’Hare/Bigfoot 99.
