COVID-19 testing site coming to Towns County Health Department
Announcements, News April 20, 2020
TOWNS COUNTY, Ga – In his public address on Friday, April 17, Sole Commissioner Cliff Bradshaw revealed that Towns County would soon receive a COVID-19 testing location at the local health department.
“We’re going to have a drive-thru testing site at Towns County Health Department, and it will be up and going in a few days. It will help us identify who has the virus, who doesn’t have the virus. You need to go isolate yourself or your fine, you can go back to work,” explained the commissioner.
According to Hiawassee Mayor Liz Ordiales the testing site is open and taking appointments. Please call ahead before showing up at the health department. The number is (706) 896-2265.
Fetch Your News contacted District Two MPH Dave Palmer for further details about the testing location. However, once all the specimen collection details are worked out, testing should begin soon.
Towns and Union County Health Department staff are being trained in COVID-19 testing protocols, and the Towns location will serve citizens from both counties.
“Specimen collection will take place at the health department and specimens will be sent to a lab for testing. Test results average 24 to 48 hours, explained Palmer. “The process will require an appointment. Individuals who have symptoms are asked to call the health department. A nurse will screen callers and then submit the information to a scheduler who will call the individual with a time to come to the specimen collection site.”
Those who take a COVID-19 test will receive a phone call with the lab results. All positive patients will work with a nurse regarding contact tracing.
How Towns received a testing location
Bradshaw contacted State Senator John Wilkinson and District 2 Public Health Director Pam Logan on Thursday, April 16 about getting a testing site. Up until now, Gainesville, Ga has been the closest drive-thru testing site for Towns County residents.
“I said can we not please get a testing site on this side of the mountain? We’ve got elderly folks here who are sick, and [they don’t feel like driving across the mountain.] To be honest with you after watching the local news and all this stuff about testing sites, I thought it would probably be impossible,” admitted Bradshaw.
At 5 p.m., Logan called back and confirmed Towns County could receive its own drive-thru site.
For those with questions about the testing site, call the health department at 706.896.2265.
“I’m very, very proud that we’re able to get this done,” said Bradshaw.
Commissioner Bradshaw gave a COVID-19 update to Towns County citizens.
He thanked everyone who made it possible including Wilkinson, Logan, Laura Ide, the office manager health department, Hiawassee Mayor Liz Ordiales, Young Harris Mayor Andrea Gibby, and all the people involved in making it happen.
“This is a serious time. There’s no doubt about it and this is when Americans rise to the top. This is when we do our best. I’m thankful to all you guys, and I’m thankful to our citizens,” stated the commissioner.
Georgia Dept. of Labor addresses unemployment options
Press Release, State & National April 22, 2020
Atlanta, GA – Governor Brian P. Kemp and the Georgia Department of Labor are partnering to ensure Georgians understand their unemployment options as the state begins the safe reopening of businesses. Governor Kemp announced plans Monday to safely and incrementally reopen sectors of the economy, and today, Labor Commissioner Mark Butler encouraged employers to work with employees to determine a successful return to work plan.
“Thanks to Governor Kemp and his support, we were able to issue an emergency rule that increased the earnings exemption amount from $55 to $300 allowing individuals to make $300 a week without reducing their weekly benefit amount,” said Commissioner Butler. “If a business opens back up slowly and their employees are returning to work with reduced hours, employers can continue to file employer-filed partial claims on behalf of their employees.”
Pursuant to the emergency rule issued on March 26, 2020, an individual can make up to $300 per week without reducing their maximum weekly benefit amount, allowing employees to work reduced hours and still qualify for state weekly benefits and the federal $600 weekly supplement.
“As we take measured steps to reopen sectors of our state’s economy, it is vital that we continue to support Georgians trying to re-enter the workforce,” said Governor Kemp. “Commissioner Butler and the Department of Labor are working around the clock to do just that. Their action under historic circumstances will continue to give our state’s workforce viable options to put food on the table for their families as we fight COVID-19 together.”
Employer-filed partial claims account for 75 percent of the state’s 1.1 million claims since March 14. Employers are required to report an individual’s weekly gross wages when certifying on behalf of the employee with the GDOL. These employer-filed partial claims can include full-time and part-time employees, as long as employers are accurately reporting an individual’s weekly wages. An employer’s account will not be charged for claims filed against it for employer-filed partial claims during this time.
“Despite claims to the contrary, returning to work does not automatically eliminate an individual’s state unemployment eligibility,” said Butler. “In fact, we designed this provision to encourage employers to continue to file while returning employees to work to take advantage of the CARES Act (Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security) benefits.”
The rule states that earnings of $300 or less will not affect entitlement to benefits. Any amount over $300 will be deducted from a claimant’s weekly benefit amount, a payment determination based on an employee’s past wages. As long as a claimant is awarded at least $1 in state benefits, he or she is eligible to receive Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation (FPUC), the additional $600 weekly payment.
“This option was created with lower wage employees in mind,” said Butler. “Allowing Georgians to supplement their income by making an additional $300 or so a week while continuing to receive state benefits, and now the federal supplement, will allow them to continue to heal from the economic wounds brought about by COVID-19.”
If a decision is made by an employee to separate from his/her place of employment, the employee has the right to file an individual claim where an eligibility determination will be made based on the facts presented in the case.
“If an employee is concerned about returning to work due to exposure to COVID-19, we are encouraging employees to communicate with their employers on plans to safely return to work,” explained Butler. “We are all working together on getting Georgians back to work in a safe and stable environment.”
Information on filing an individual unemployment claim, details on how employers must file employer-filed partial claims, and resources for other reemployment assistance can be found on the agency’s webpage at www.gdol.ga.gov.
Fire department offers essential aid to Towns residents
Community, News April 20, 2020
HIAWASSEE, Ga – Fire Chief Harold Copeland took a moment to inform the public that the fire department is available to any essential aid during the COVID-19 pandemic.
“Not only is your fire department here for your med calls and fire emergencies, at a time like this during a pandemic, we’re here for your special needs as well,” said Copeland.
Stations are manned Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. and 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Copeland also gave out several numbers for citizens to call to reach the fire department if they need assistance. On the weekends and at night, people can call Station One at 706.896.2090 or call Copeland’s cell phone at 706.994.4934.
Copeland monitors the Station One voicemail and will get in touch with anyone who needs assistance. This applies to the gathering of any essentials for those in the community who can’t get out, such as groceries, prescriptions, or any type of aid. The department’s also delivering Meals on Wheels to the public.
Copeland became emotional when speaking about an individual who hadn’t eaten due to the inability to leave their home.
“If you’re home right now and you haven’t eaten today, call me. We’ll go through the drive-thru for you,” Copeland expressed. “We’re coming that’s what we do, that’s what everybody in this room does.”
The fire department will ask some COVID-19 screening questions in order to follow CDC guidelines. Those who respond to calls for meals, groceries, or medicine will place the goods on porches, carports, or vehicles.
“We’re here for you. The fire department’s here for you. The EMS is here for you. The same way y’all have been here for us over the years as a community whether it’s through your taxes or donations you’ve given,” stated Copeland.
“We want to take care of our citizens anyway we possibly can,” said Sole Commissioner Cliff Bradshaw. “Thank you all for all that you’re doing we appreciate it very much and better days are just around the corner. We’re getting there.”
To find out more about COVID-19 testing at the Towns County Health Department, click here.
Georgia Board of Cosmetology and Barbers Issues Safety Guidelines for Reopening
Press Release, State & National April 22, 2020
Atlanta, GA – Georgia State Board of Cosmetology and Barbers issued guidance for the safe reopening of Georgia’s salons and spas.
“I deeply appreciate the work of Kay Kendrick and the Georgia State Board of Cosmetology and Barbers to prepare guidelines for implementation by Georgia’s shops and salons,” said Governor Brian Kemp. “As we begin the process of safely reopening our economy, it is critical that business owners, operators, and contractors adhere strictly to increased safety and sanitation guidelines to mitigate the spread of COVID-19. Working together, I am confident that we can get these sectors back online and work to ensure the health and safety of all Georgians.”
“I am very happy that Governor Kemp decided that we can reopen our salons and spas,” said Kay Kendrick, chair of the Georgia State Board of Cosmetology and Barbers. “We have 95,000 licensees under our board, most of whom are independent contractors that have no other source of income.
“Under our sanitation laws and rules, we are charged with the responsibility of protecting consumers from the spread of contagious diseases everyday in our salons. By adding the safety guidelines that have been developed by the board and some of our industry leaders in the cosmetology and barber profession, we feel that our professionals will be able to do an even better job of protecting themselves and their clients. I trust that all our professionals will use these guidelines to be safe and protect their clients. “
Salon/shop owners and managers should use the OSHA “Guidance on Preparing Workplaces for COVID-19” as a guide for reopening. Below are some of the top-level guidelines for salon and spa operators to follow. The complete list of guidelines will be available here.
Temperature Checks: Salons should consider use of a touchless infrared thermometer to check the temperature of employees each day and of each client who enters the salon/shop.
Screening Questions: Ask each client entering the shop the following questions – Have you had a cough? Have you had a fever? Have you been around anyone exhibiting these symptoms within the past 14 days? Are you living with anyone who is sick or quarantined?
Limit People In Shops/Salons: Salons/shops should consider seeing clients by appointment only. Salons/shops should consider telephonic or online scheduling. Limit the number of persons in the waiting area of the salon/shop. It is recommended that clients wait outside the salon/shop in their vehicle until the cosmetologist or barber is ready to serve them. It is recommended that persons not being serviced in the salon/shop wait outside the salon/shop.
Maintain Social Distancing: Spacing between persons in the salon should be at least six feet at all times. Salons/shops should consider additional spacing between booths, divider shields, and/or alternate work schedules.
Use of Personal Protective Equipment and Best Practices: Salon/shop employees will be required to wear masks at all times. Salons may want to consider providing masks to clients. Clients should wear face masks to the extent possible while receiving services. Salons/shops should also make use of face shields, gloves, disposable or re-washable capes, smocks, neck strips, etc. These items should be disinfected or disposed of between each client. Employees should should arrive at the salon/shop showered and wearing clean clothing and change clothes before leaving the salon/shop each day. Hand washing with soap and warm water, for a minimum of 20 seconds will be required by employees between every client service.
Disinfection: All salons/shops should be thoroughly cleaned and disinfected prior to reopening. Disinfect all surfaces, tools, and linens, even if they were cleaned before the salon/shop was closed. Salons/shops should maintain regular disinfection of all tools, shampoo bowls, pedicure bowls, workstations, treatment rooms, and restrooms. Additionally, salons/shops should remove all unnecessary items (magazines, newspapers, service menus, and any other unnecessary paper products/decor) from reception areas and ensure that these areas and regularly touched surfaces are consistently wiped down, disinfected, and that hand sanitizer is readily available to clients and staff. Avoiding the exchange of cash can help in preventing the spread of the virus, but if this is unavoidable, be sure to wash and sanitize hands well after each transaction. The use of credit/debit transactions is preferred, using touch/swipe/no signature technology.
Administration: Employees who are sick will be expected to stay home. Salon/shop owners/managers should provide training, educational materials, and reinforcement on proper sanitation, hand washing, cough and sneeze etiquette, use of PPE, and other protective behaviors. Ensure break rooms are thoroughly cleaned and sanitized and not used for congregating by employees. Be flexible with work schedules/salon hours to reduce the number of people (employees and clients) in salons/shops at all times in order to maintain social distancing.
A full list of these guidelines will be made available on the Georgia State Board of Cosmetology and Barbers’ website.
Commissioner Bradshaw asks public to continue their efforts against COVID-19
Health, News April 20, 2020
HIAWASSEE, Ga – On the courthouse steps, Sole Commissioner Cliff Bradshaw spoke the residents of Towns County and encouraged them to continue following the CDC guidelines.
He’s also telling any people who want to visit the county to stay home. When everything is lifted, Towns County will welcome visitors with open arms, but not right now. People need to stay home so freedoms can be restored hopefully sooner rather than later.
“Now is not the time to come to Towns County. I ask them the simple question every time, ‘what does shelter in place mean?’ The phone gets silent on the other end,” said Bradshaw.
Georgia’s COVID-19 peak is expected around April 26, but that doesn’t mean the “danger of this pandemic virus will be eliminated at that time.” Some reports have pushed the peak out to May and others suggest Georgia’s already over the peak.
Citizens should continue to shelter in place, frequent handwashing, practice six feet apart social distancing, wear cloth face masks in public settings, and if sick isolate and contact physician.
“I would like to take the time to thank you for your cooperation, understanding, patience, and support during these difficult times,” said Bradshaw. “As we are seeing an increase in confirmed cases in Towns County and across the nation, I want to assure you that as your commissioner, I am doing everything within the law to combat the spread of the virus.”
The total of confirmed cases in Towns County has risen significantly over the past 48 hours, jumping from three to ten. Health officials continue to urge caution due to asymptomatic transmission and many cases could go unreported because the afflicted only experience mild symptoms.
Bradshaw is in constant contact with government officials on how to control the spread of COVID-19.
He also took a moment to thank local healthcare workers and essential employees who are tirelessly providing aid to patients during this crisis.
“I would also like to express my appreciation to healthcare workers, public safety personnel, and all other essential workers for the vital services you are providing to our community. We are very fortunate to live in such a loving and caring community, working together we can limit the threat this virus has brought to our community,” expressed Bradshaw.
The commissioner also addressed the financial state of the county, and currently, Towns is in good shape financially due to former Commissioner Kendall’s “rainy day fund” and the good economy leading up to the shutdown. Kendall’s fund has three months of operating expenses stored even if the county has no income.
“In year 2018, we increased our revenue by $600,000, that’s a lot of money for a small county, small budget, compared to most counties,” explained Bradshaw. “Tourism dollars, since I’ve been in office, has increased over $3M that’s dollars spent in Towns County on tourism. We pushed very, very hard for that. Our sales tax collection last year was up over $100,000. So that’s a good economy and that’s us pushing to take advantage of a good economy.”
Bradshaw did caution that eventually the county may have to dip into the “rainy day fund,” but right now all county departments are under direction to only complete necessary spending.
If anyone has questions or concerns, they can contact the commissioner at 706.896.2276.
Towns County Schools release details concerning year end
Board of Education, Indian's Corner, State & National April 2, 2020
HIAWASSEE, Ga – Towns County Schools issued details regarding the remainder of the school year on April 16. It addressed online instruction and remedial instruction.
The final school day will remain May 22, but the last day of online classes will by May 15 for those who demonstrated proficiency in the curriculum. These students will receive a passing grade for the school year.
However, students who need remedial instruction will continue to work with their teachers for the week of May 18 to May 22. Teachers will help students make up missing assignments or not passing a class.
“Our teachers are working harder than ever to ensure each student receives the education they need to be prepared for next year. The community has given overwhelming support and understanding during these difficult times. Our parents and guardians have stepped up to the task of helping educate students at home and keep them on track. Together, our students will reach their highest potential,” stated Superintendent Darren Berrong.
The final week will also be used to coordinate times for the return of Chromebooks, wi-fi hot spots, and identifying times for students to safely clean out their lockers.
“This will be a task in itself as we will strategically plan these efforts around the social distancing guidelines. Each school will develop a plan for their students and will provide more information to you as we finalize those plans,” explained Berrong in his statement.
“Parents, please know that your child’s needs both educational and emotional have been and will continue to be our number one priority, said Berrong. “We are blessed to have a community and staff that truly love your children and are honored to serve them on a daily basis.”
Statement regarding the end of the school year from Superintendent Berrong.
More information about Gov. Kemp’s school closing order below:
ATLANTA, Ga – Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp signed Executive Order 04.01.20.01 to close all public-school facilities through the end of the school year.
Kemp announced the order on April 1, along with his decision to implement a shelter in place directive until April 13. He first closed public K-12 schools on March 31 and had since extended the order until April 24.
The order applies to all elementary, secondary, and post-secondary public education facilities in order to stop the spread of COVID-19 in Georgia communities. As of April 1, the week of April 23 is predicted to be the tipping point in the Georgia outbreak.
Online learning will continue, and local school districts can determine the final day of classes. Also, faculty and staff can return to their classrooms once school districts determine it is safe for employees to enter the campus.
Georgia Department of Public Health and Department of Education are taking measures to ensure the nutrition and safety needs of students are being met during this time.
A testing waiver for public schools was approved earlier in the year. No student will take Georgia Milestones.
This order does not apply to the University System of Georgia or the Technical College System of Georgia. The Chancellor of the University System and Commissioner of the Technical College System reserve the right to make decisions about their respective campuses across Georgia.
Asymptomatic Towns County resident tests positive, worked at The Local Market
News, Press Release April 13, 2020
CLAY COUNTY, NC – An asymptomatic Towns County, GA resident that was working from March 28, 2020 – April 10, 2020 at The Local Market, otherwise known as “Aztec” or the “Bypass Store” in Clay County has tested positive for COVID-19 at an area hospital.
This individual is in isolation in Towns County and is doing well. All known contacts have been notified, and testing has either been completed or will occur tomorrow morning. All that have been tested have been given official isolation orders, and those that are being tested have been instructed to self-quarantine. No contacts have reported any symptoms. It is advised that if you went into this establishment during the dates above and had contact with anyone less than 6 feet from you for 10 minutes or longer, you quarantine yourself and monitor for symptoms of illness for 14 days from the date of potential exposure.
If you become sick during this time, you should isolate yourself and your household in an effort to stop the spread of this virus. Persons should remain isolated when sick until the following criteria are met:
- At least 3 days (72 hours) have passed since recovery defined as resolution of fever without the use of fever-reducing medications and improvement in respiratory symptoms (e.g., cough, shortness of breath), AND
At least 7 days have passed since symptoms first appeared.
If household or close contacts become sick during the 14 day monitoring period, it is advised that they then isolate until the criteria for discontinuation of isolation (listed above) are met.
If you become sick with a respiratory type illness and are in one of the following categories, please contact the Clay County Health Department at 828-389-8052 to speak to a provider to determine if you need to be tested:
- Healthcare worker
- 65 years and older
- Underlying health conditions such as chronic lung disease or moderate to severe asthma; serious heart conditions; people with weakened immune systems, severe obesity, diabetes, chronic kidney disease undergoing dialysis, liver disease.
- First Responder
- Essential worker
For more information about Georgia cases visit DPH website.
Information about that previous Clay County case confirmed here.
For daily updates on N.C. and Ga cases, check out Fetch Your News’ daily update page.
District 2 Public Health announces new testing guidelines
Health, Press Release April 14, 2020
GAINESVILLE, GA – In a press release issued today by District 2 Public Health, it outlines that the state has expanded the testing guidelines to include those without symptoms if they meet certain qualifications.
“District 2 Public Health is ramping up specimen collection to help meet Governor Kemp’s call for increased testing. This is made possible by additional testing supplies, increased laboratory capacity and expanded testing criteria. The new testing guidelines will include these groups:
- Hospitalized patients
- The following people with symptoms:
- Healthcare workers, first responders, and other critical infrastructure workers
- Persons residing in long-term care facilities or other group residential settings
- Persons 65 years of age and older
- Patients with underlying medical conditions
- Household members or caregivers of any of the groups above
- Persons with close contact with a known COVID-19 case
- The following people without symptoms will also be tested as capacity allows:
- Healthcare workers, first responders, and other critical infrastructure workers that have been exposed to COVID-19
- Residents of a long-term care facility or other group residential setting experiencing an outbreak of COVID-19
If you feel that you meet any of these conditions, follow these three simple steps:
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Call your local health department and ask to speak to a nurse about COVID-19 testing.
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The nurse will review your situation and submit your information for verification.
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Public health will call you back to arrange an appointment at the site nearest to you.”
Here’s Fetch Your News’ daily updates of COVID-19 cases in Georgia.
DPH Release – Expanded Testing For COVID-19 In Georgia
Featured, Health April 15, 2020
Revised Testing Criteria and Increased Number of Test Sites
Atlanta – The Georgia Department of Public Health (DPH) is increasing the number of specimen
collection sites statewide for COVID-19 testing, and is revising the current testing criteria to
accommodate more testing of Georgia residents.
Effective immediately, all symptomatic individuals will be eligible for COVID-19 testing. Health
care workers, first responders, law enforcement and long-term care facility residents and staff will
still be prioritized for testing regardless of whether they are or are not symptomatic.
Referrals are still required, however, there are now two ways to be referred to a DPH specimen
collection site:
Local Health Department –
Individuals who meet COVID-19 testing criteria may now be referred to DPH specimen collection
sites by contacting their local health department. They will be screened by appropriate health
department staff and referred to the closest, most convenient specimen collection site.
Contact information for local health departments can be found on the DPH homepage, under COVID-19 in Georgia.
Health Care Provider Referral –
Health care providers and/or physicians can and should continue to refer patients for COVID-19
testing.
People should not arrive unannounced or without a scheduled appointment at a specimen
collection site, hospital, emergency room or other health care facility. Only individuals who have
been evaluated by public health or a health care provider and assigned a PUI # number will
be referred to these drive-thru sites.
Together we can stop further spread of COVID-19 in our state and save lives.
Stay home – the Governor has issued a shelter-in-place Executive Order that should be observed
by all residents and visitors.
Practice social distancing – keep at least 6 feet between yourself and other people.
Wash your hands – use soap and water and scrub for at least 20 seconds. Use an alcohol-based
hand sanitizer (60% alcohol) if soap and water aren’t readily available.
Wear a mask – the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommend the use of face
masks to help slow the spread of COVID-19, especially where socials distancing is difficult to
maintain (grocery stores, pharmacies, etc.), and especially in areas of significant community-
based transmission.
For more information about COVID-19 Click here or
Click Here.
For updates on the COVID-19 situation as it develops, follow @GaDPH, @GeorgiaEMA, and
@GovKemp on Twitter and @GaDPH, @GEMA.OHS, and @GovKemp on Facebook.
Chatuge Regional employee tests positive for COVID-19
Health, Press Release April 10, 2020
HIAWASSEE, Ga – On April 10, 2020, Union General Health System issued the following release concerning a Chatuge Regional Employee who has tested positive for COVID-19. Towns County Health Department received notification at the time of test.
The employee last worked at Chatuge on April 2 and wasn’t exhibiting symptoms at that time. Their positive test came back on April 9. Fetch Your News asked a Union General Hospital representative who decided to administer a COVID-19 test. They didn’t know as they weren’t there at the time.
The representative did confirm that the employee was definitely asked to isolate and follow CDC guidelines like all Union General Health System employees.
Part of the CDC guidelines and Union General’s protocol includes wearing all proper medical attire when entering a patient’s room, so inpatients should have experienced minimal exposure to the positive employee. The press release also stated that no inpatients are currently suspected of having COVID-19.
Read the entire release below:
Union General Health System implements best practices in compliance with CDC and DPH guidance. Patient safety and ensuring the highest quality of care is a priority for the entire Union General Health System. As a community partner, Union General seeks to ensure that the community has accurate information and to ensure that inaccurate statements are corrected.
Specifically, Chatuge Regional Hospital has one employee that tested positive for COVID-19. The employee last worked at Chatuge on Thursday, April 2. The employee had no symptoms while working last week.
The employee was instructed to isolate and distance from other people per the CDC guidelines upon being tested. Notification was made to the Towns County Public Health Department at the time of the test, and the positive result was returned on Thursday, April 9. The employee will not return to work until clear of COVID-19 infection per the CDC guidelines. Anyone with a potential exposure to this employee will be contacted and given instructions on self-monitoring and offered testing as per the CDC and Georgia DPH guidelines. It is believed that this employee’s infection is likely related to a community exposure as no suspected or confirmed COVID-19 patients are being treated as inpatients at Chatuge Regional Hospital.
Our employees have received education on COVID-19 signs and symptoms and the CDC guidelines surrounding this illness, including isolation precautions. All employees are screened daily prior to working with temperature check and screened for any signs or symptoms of COVID-19. Union General Health System continues to monitor CDC and CMS guidance related to COVID-19 and will continue to collaborate with the Department of Public Health.
Fetch Your News will update this story as more information becomes available.
Collins urges Windstream to provide increased access to rural broadband
Press Release, State & National April 10, 2020GAINESVILLE, Ga. — Reps. Doug Collins (R-Ga.), Austin Scott (R-Ga.), and Sanford Bishop (D-Ga.) today sent a letter to Windstream underscoring the importance of providing increased access to broadband – particularly in rural areas – in the midst of COVID-19.
“As representatives of thousands of Windstream customers, we write today regarding the impact coronavirus has had on broadband access in rural communities throughout Georgia,” they wrote. “In the past, we have written to you regarding the inadequate internet service our constituents are receiving despite your company’s acceptance of federal dollars to expand access. While we know Windstream has upgraded some areas that are more populated and less rural, many of our constituents continue to struggle with poor broadband speeds.”
For years, Windstream customers across Georgia have consistently struggled to gain access to reliable broadband speeds. Congress has taken significant steps toward expanding rural broadband infrastructure in recent years, including securing federal funding to providers in rural areas. However, some carriers – like Windstream – have failed to provide adequate broadband speeds to consumers despite collecting taxpayer dollars. As this pandemic is forcing more and more Georgians to rely on the internet, access to reliable broadband is more critical than ever before.
“Due to the coronavirus outbreak, thousands of Georgians are being forced to work, learn, and recreate from home. This undoubtedly has increased the strain on the networks your consumers depend upon. Over the past several years, we have heard complaints of a network that is overburdened and cannot keep up during peak use. Even though we have been calling for increased internet access in rural areas for years, this moment in time shows that Windstream has yet to meet the mark.”
Read the full letter here.
Georgia Primary moves to June 9 after extension of public health emergency
Press Release, State & National April 9, 2020
(ATLANTA) — Today, Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger announced that, pursuant to the authority vested in him by O.C.G.A. § 21-2-50.1, he is postponing the Statewide General Primary/Presidential Preference Primary Election until June 9, 2020.
Yesterday, Governor Brian Kemp extended the current public health state of emergency until May 13, 2020. Lieutenant Governor Geoff Duncan and Speaker of the House David Ralston concurred in the Governor’s extension of the state of emergency.
“Due to the Governor’s extension of the state of emergency through a time period that includes almost every day of in-person voting for an election on May 19, and after careful consideration, I am now comfortable exercising the authority vested in me by Georgia law to postpone the primary election until June 9,” said Secretary Raffensperger. “This decision allows our office and county election officials to continue to put in place contingency plans to ensure that voting can be safe and secure when in-person voting begins and prioritizes the health and safety of voters, county election officials, and poll workers.”
Throughout this crisis, the Secretary of State’s office has been in close contact with county election officials across the state. Over the past week, the reports of mounting difficulties from county election officials, particularly in Southwest Georgia, grew to a point where county election officials could not overcome the challenges brought on by COVID-19 in time for in-person voting to begin on April 27. Additionally, current modeling by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and by the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation projects the COVID-19 pandemic in Georgia will peak around April 24, only days before in-person voting was scheduled to begin. While challenges will certainly remain on June 9, these additional three weeks will give the Secretary of State’s office and counties time to shore up contingency plans, find and train additional poll workers, and procure supplies and equipment necessary to clean equipment and protect poll workers.
Emergency authority is something that should be exercised carefully, and moving an election should only take place in the rarest of circumstances. While Secretary Raffensperger previously expressed concern that he did not have the authority to move the primary election again, the Governor’s extension of the state of emergency to a time that includes almost every day of in-person voting for a May 19 election is sufficient to allow the Secretary to exercise the emergency authority given to him by O.C.G.A. § 21-2-50.1 and move the primary election to June 9.
“I certainly realize that every difficulty will not be completely solved by the time in-person voting begins for the June 9 election, but elections must happen even in less than ideal circumstances,” said Raffensperger. “Just like our brave healthcare workers and first responders, our county election officials and poll workers are undertaking work critical to our democracy, and they will continue to do this critical work with all the challenges that the current crisis has brought forth. This postponement allows us to provide additional protection and safety resources to county election officials, poll workers, and voters without affecting the November election.”
Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger
The voter registration deadline for the June 9, 2020 election will be May 11, 2020. Early voting will begin on May 18, 2020. Pursuant to O.C.G.A. § 21-2-501, moving the primary election to June 9, 2020 will move the primary runoff to August 11, 2020.Pushing back the primary to June 9 gives Georgia election officials additional time to put in place contingency plans to allow for safe and secure voting, but pushing back the primary election any further could potentially have negative consequences on preparation for the November 3, 2020 General Election. Given existing deadlines to prepare and send ballots for the November election, particularly for military voters, moving forward on June 9 is the best way to ensure a successful election year in Georgia.
Absentee ballot applications for the upcoming primary election will continue to be accepted and processed by counties even if the application said May 19. Once county election officials properly verify the signature on the application, the voter will be sent an absentee ballot for the primary election now to be held on June 9.
Kemp suspends short-term vacation rentals, parks remain open
News, State & National April 8, 2020
ATLANTA, Ga – After issuing an extended shelter in place, Gov. Brian Kemp finally instituted a ban on short-term vacation rentals to slow the spread of COVID-19. However, the governor stopped short of closing state parks and beaches despite numerous calls from local governments to do so.
“I have also heard the concerns of many hardworking Georgians, including local elected officials, who fear that our state will become a vacation destination. As a result, and in accordance with public health guidance, I have signed an order to suspend short-term vacation rentals across Georgia,” stated Kemp.
The short-term rental ban identifies vacation rentals as residential properties that can be leased for 30 days or less and can be let by a third-party broker. The licensor is a limited liability corporation, corporation, partnership, person, or any other entity; and the licensee is a private person.
It DOES NOT apply to hotels, motels, campgrounds, extended-stay hotels, commercial transactions, and leases that serve as a person’s primary residence.
Additionally, any rental paid in full by 12:00 a.m. on April 9, 2020, may keep their reservation.
The order won’t prevent people from occupying their personal property.
Law enforcement is authorized to enforce the order, but not to evict anyone in a vacation rental.
Beginning at 12:00 a.m. on April 9, the ban will expire on April 30 at 11:59 p.m.
When asked about the closing of the state parks and beaches, Kemp said only 300 people visited the beaches over the weekend and everyone practiced social distancing.
Earlier in the week, 12 North Georgia Commission Chairmen joined together to ask Kemp to close state parks and the Mayor of Tybee Island also issued a statement expressing his dissatisfaction with Kemp’s decision to open state beaches and park.
As of now, all his state parks reports indicated everyone was following CDC guidelines and he sees no reason to close the parks. Kemp did say he would revisit the issue if he discovers park visitors aren’t practicing social distancing.
Kemp also reasoned that when gyms and other exercise facilities close, people will want to go somewhere to receive physical activity.
Long-Term Care Update
Except from Kemp’s speech:
“The Georgia Department of Public Health has determined that COVID-19 is spreading through nursing homes, inpatient hospice, assisted living communities, personal care homes, intermediate care homes, community living arrangements, and community integration homes. We have dramatically increased access to resources to these facilities to mitigate exposure, but we have to do more to protect these Georgians.
“Earlier today, I signed an executive order extending Georgia’s public health state of emergency through May 13, 2020. This measure will allow us to deploy more resources to communities in need, lend support to frontline medical providers, and keep preparing as we brace for potential patient surge in our healthcare facilities. I appreciate Lt. Governor Duncan, Speaker Ralston, and the General Assembly for working with us to ensure resources are available to proactively respond to the COVID-19 pandemic.
“This afternoon, I also signed an executive order mandating more aggressive infection control measures at long-term care facilities across Georgia. I’ll outline a few, key requirements. Facilities must adopt infectious disease transfer protocols with nearby hospitals. Visitors and non-essential personnel are strictly prohibited except in compassionate care situations. If feasible, these facilities must provide in-room dining services, and all group activities are canceled. Employees must wash or sanitize their hands after any interaction with a resident. Facilities must implement protocols to screen residents for fever and respiratory symptoms, and employees must be screened before starting a shift. If an employee is exposed, to the extent feasible, he or she must self-quarantine for fourteen days before returning to work. Facilities are required to implement universal and correct use of personal protective equipment, and we stand ready to coordinate delivery of supplies. Facilities must utilize hospital-grade disinfectants for frequent cleaning. If possible, residents with symptoms of respiratory infection need to be placed together, and facilities should have specific employees working only on affected units. To ensure compliance, I am empowering the Department of Public Health, National Guard, and Department of Community Health to issue directives to facilities to prevent, monitor, and treat COVID-19.
“Today, I am also signing an executive order to activate 1,000 additional National Guard members to assist in COVID-19 emergency response.
“In accordance with public health recommendations, I am also extending the statewide shelter in place order through April 30, 2020. All of the provisions of the statewide shelter in place order will remain in effect. I want to thank everyone who followed these directives, and I appreciate your patience.”
Kemp and DECAL issue statement concerning essential travel
Press Release, State & National April 8, 2020
Atlanta, GA – Governor Brian P. Kemp and Amy M. Jacobs, Commissioner of the Georgia Department of Early Care and Learning (DECAL), issued the following joint statement regarding measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19 while ensuring that our state’s essential workforce has access to licensed childcare.
“On Thursday, April 2, 2020, the Executive Order to Ensure a Safe & Healthy Georgia – commonly called the shelter-in-place order – was issued. The order became effective beginning Friday, April 3 at 6:00 PM and is set to expire Monday, April 13 at 11:59 PM. This order allows all licensed childcare facilities to remain open subject to certain restrictions, including social distancing and sanitation.
“We have received recent reports of law enforcement stopping people to ask for a letter authorizing their travel. The Executive Order to Ensure a Safe & Healthy Georgia does not require any worker to carry an authorization letter on Georgia’s roads. As a result, the order allows for any necessary travel by workers and families to and from a childcare facility during this public health emergency.
“Parents with children in private childcare represent Georgia’s hardworking families with jobs that are critical to supporting themselves and the larger community. Essential workers such as nurses, doctors, first responders, and state and municipal employees rely on childcare to allow them to perform the critical functions so desperately needed in a public health emergency. From the fireman to the stocker at the grocery store, without access to quality, licensed childcare, many of these workers would be forced to stay home, putting further stress on the system responding to this pandemic.
“Continuing to work closely with the Governor’s Office, Georgia Department of Public Health, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, DECAL is prepared to lead our state’s efforts in assisting our youngest children and their families through this unprecedented time. We will continue partnering with the childcare industry and advocates of early childhood education to creatively address the challenges we face now and the new challenges that will emerge going forward.
Kemp, Duncan, Ralston announce plans to extend Public Health State of Emergency
Press Release, State & National April 8, 2020
Atlanta, GA – Today Governor Brian P. Kemp, Lt. Governor Geoff Duncan, and House Speaker David Ralston announced plans to extend Georgia’s public health state of emergency through May 13, 2020, to mitigate the spread of COVID-19. Under state law, the Governor may renew the public health state of emergency, which was otherwise set to expire on April 13, 2020. Lt. Governor Duncan and Speaker Ralston agree it is necessary for the public health emergency to be renewed and will not be requesting a special legislative session, which was tentatively scheduled for April 15, 2020.
“To ensure the health and well-being of Georgians, I will extend the public health state of emergency through May 13, 2020. This measure will allow us to continue to deploy resources to communities in need, lend support to frontline medical providers, and keep preparing as we brace for potential patient surge in our healthcare facilities. We deeply appreciate the hard work of Georgians who are sheltering in place, using social distancing, and helping us flatten the curve. We are in this fight together,” said Governor Kemp. “I appreciate Lt. Governor Duncan and Speaker Ralston continuing to work with us to ensure resources are available to proactively respond to the COVID-19 pandemic, and I thank them for their support of an extended emergency declaration. In these unprecedented times, we ask Georgians for their continued patience and prayers, especially for first responders, law enforcement, and the healthcare workers caring for the medically fragile. They are going above and beyond to keep us all safe, and we will never be able to repay them for their sacrifices.”
“We must continue our aggressive fight against COVID-19,” said Lt. Governor Duncan. “By extending the public health state of emergency, we can ensure Georgians have access to every available state resource during this crisis. Together, Speaker Ralston and I are working closely with Governor Kemp to do all we can to make sure we are meeting the needs of every Georgian. The General Assembly will continue to remain vigilant and available to assist our citizens in any way possible.”
“The entirety of our state government is working to protect the health and safety of our citizens, and I appreciate the work of our state personnel and first responders during this challenging time,” said Speaker David Ralston. “While we have difficult days ahead, we continue to coordinate with both local and federal partners in responding to needs as they arise. As Georgians, we will persevere and emerge stronger on the other side.”
Update: Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forests closes additional recreation areas
Press Release, State & National April 9, 2020
Update from April 9: Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forests temporarily shuts down additional recreation areas in Lumpkin, Rabun, Towns, and Union counties – https://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/conf/news-events/…
The Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forests is temporarily shutting down additional recreation sites on the Blue Ridge and Chattooga River Ranger Districts to protect public health and safety.
The decision aligns with state and local measures to stop the spread of COVID-19, and guidance from the Centers For Disease Control (CDC) and Prevention.
“We continually consult leaders in our communities, in order to align with local, state, and federal decisions that protect public health and safety,” said Edward Hunter, Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forests acting forest supervisor. “We aim to implement the highest standard of public health and safety.”
Effective immediately, the following recreation sites are temporarily shut down:
Union County
* Davenport OHV Area
* Beasley Knob OHV Area
Lumpkin County
* Whissenhunt OHV Area
* Dicks Creek Day-Use Area
Towns County
* Lake Chatuge Recreation Area and Boat Ramp
Rabun County
* Angel Falls Trail
Original Story from April 3:
The Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forests is temporarily shutting down additional recreation sites on the Chattahoochee National Forest to protect public health and safety.
The decision aligns with state and local measures to stop the spread of COVID-19, and guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
“We continually consult leaders in our communities, in order to align with local, state, and federal decisions that protect public health and safety,” said Edward Hunter, Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forests’ acting forest supervisor. “We aim to implement the highest standard of public health and safety.”
Effective immediately, the following recreation sites are temporarily shut down:
Rabun County
- Hemlock Falls Trail and Trailhead, Parking Area
- Minnehaha Falls Trail and Trailhead
Towns County
- Indian Grave Gap Road (Forest Service Road #283)
White County
- Smith Creek Trail and Trailhead
- White Oak Gap Road (Forest Service Road #244)
Previously announced shutdowns include:
- All national forest developed campgrounds, group recreation sites, picnic pavilions, and all restrooms.
- Appalachian Trail trailheads including Dicks Creek Gap, Hogpen Gap, Neels Gap, Springer Mountain, Tesnatee Gap, Unicoi Gap, and Woody Gap.
- Trails and associated trailheads providing access to the Appalachian Trail including Andrews Cove Trail, segments of the Benton MacKaye Trail (from Fall Branch Falls to Springer Mountain), Byron Herbert Reece Memorial Trail, Dukes Creek Falls Trails, Duncan Ridge Trail, Dockery Lake Trail, Freeman Trail, Jacks Knob Trail, Jarrard Gap Trail, Logan Turnpike Trail, Long Creek Falls Trail, Panther Creek Falls Trail, Slaughter Creek Trail, Springer Mountain Trail, Raven Cliffs Falls Trail, and Yonah Mountain Trail.
Fannin County
• Aska Trail System
• Shady Falls Trailhead
• Long Branch Loop Trail
• Green Mtn. Connector Trail
• Deep Gap Trailhead
• Green Mtn. Trail
• Stanley Gap Trailhead
• Stanley Gap Trail
• Fruitkoff Trail Access
• Deep Hole Day Use Area
• Sandy Bottoms Day Use Area
• Old Dial Rd. and Padena Dispersed Camping
• Rock Creek Rd. Dispersed Camping
• Noontootla Dispersed Camping (FS 58)
• Sea Creek Falls Trail
Union County
• Helton Creek Falls Trail
Lumpkin County
• Dicks Creek Dispersed Camping Corridor
• Forest Service Road 42 Dispersed Camping Corridor (runs through Gilmer, Fannin, Lumpkin)
• Nimblewill Dispersed Camping Corridor
• Jake and Bull Dispersed Campsites (trail use allowed)
Towns County
• High Shoals Falls Trail
Guidelines for health and safety, recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), are available at: www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/about/prevention.html.
The latest information about recreation sites is available at www.fs.usda.gov/conf, also on Facebook and Twitter at @ChattOconeeNF.