In the past few weeks, Adams County has seen a troubling spike in confirmed COVID-19 cases, and the increase is threatening to move the county into Safer at Home- Level 3.
The city understands the economic and social impact moving to Level 3 would cause, and will be working with businesses, schools, and local health partners to implement Adams County’s “Pledge to Protect” mitigation plan to lower the curve.
“We see what’s called the beginning of the third wave,” says Westminster Mayor Herb Atchison. “If we don’t work together over the next two weeks, the county and state will impose greater restrictions on our community than we see today. Whether it continues is in all of our hands.”
The “Pledge to Protect” plan, approved and put into effect by the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment on Friday, Oct. 16, impacts city businesses by ceasing all alcohol beverage sales at 10 p.m.
In addition to the “Pledge to Protect” Plan, Tri-County Health Department issued a public health order, effective Friday, Oct. 16 at 9 p.m. and enacts the following:
1. Spectators are prohibited at Colorado High School Sports Association (CHSSA) sanctioned sporting events.
2. Spectators are prohibited from adult recreational and league sports.
3. Organized recreational and league youth sports are limited to 25 people per field, including spectators. Coaches and referees are excluded from the 25 person capacity limit.
4. Personal indoor gatherings are limited to no more than five individuals. Outdoor personal gatherings are limited to no more than 10 individuals. Life rite ceremonies are excluded. Nothing in this order prohibits the gathering of members living in the same household. Click here for tips about how to stay safe during small social gatherings.
5. All alcohol beverage sales must cease at 10 p.m.
“The spike of cases we see in Adams County is deeply concerning, but we feel the plan will aid us in reducing transmission and help reverse current case trends within the county,” said County Manager Ray Gonzales.
If Adams County does not see a reverse in the current trends by Sunday, Nov. 1, additional restrictions are likely.
Jefferson County, which covers a significant portion of the city, is in a similar situation as Adams County, but has not issued a mitigation plan yet.
The city will continue to update its communication platforms as quickly as possible with both counties’ updates. However, residents and businesses should check Jefferson County Public Health and the Tri-County Health Department for updated information.
