Chelan County Looking to Move to Modified Phase 2 of Re-Open

Chelan County Commissioners say they are working with the local health district, the state Department of Health, local officials and the Governor's office to try and slowly restart the economy a little more quickly.

Kevin Overbay says they spoke with Barry Kling and Dr. Malcolm Butler Monday about what kind of businesses might be able to open up.

"It's kind of a modified Phase 2 which is going to put us about 2-3 weeks in advance of what the governor's timeline is currently for Chelan and Douglas County. We're hoping to get our businesses open as soon as possible. We're looking at other elements of business that also might be able to open."

It would effect some sectors of retail businesses, though Overbay stressed it wasn't a free for all and they will build in safeguards for the community.

Overbay says they are also working with local churches about possibly reopening.

"This has really been a grassroots effort communitywide of all the parties involved here to get this thing moved forward and convince the governor that on the local level we know best and we can get folks opened as soon as possible."

Overbay says one of the big benefits is that if only some stores are open, it can compact people into fewer places, making them more susceptible to COVID-19.

Hear the full conversation that also covered farmworker housing and the county's budget.