The first few weeks of employment for new Marshall County Health Administrator Ashley Garcia have been busy, but she says she’s ready to go and grateful for the opportunity.
She commented to the Marshall County Commissioners Monday morning that she’s glad that government leaders and community organizations are being creative in holding meetings and people are adhering to the recommendations set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for limiting people in one setting and exercising social distancing. Meetings are being held by teleconferencing and by virtual means.
Garcia added social distancing has become a challenge, in some cases. She said an order concerning funerals was adapted for the Amish community. She explained she received word that a funeral was to be held with over 100 people. She said she spoke to the Bishops who were going to meet to make sure everyone is on board. An understanding was reached when the order was initiated, but not executed. She also delivered a list of guidelines from the CDC for ministers and leaders of religious institutions.
An executive order was also adopted last week that closed all campground and RV Park operations in the county. Garcia noted that the idea was to discourage travelers coming into the area who were known to be diagnosed with COVID-19. She said the order was to protect everyone in the community.
As for community parks, Garcia reminds residents that playground equipment is restricted to children as the virus can be transmitted very easily.
Garcia asks for continued community awareness during this uncertain time and the Health Department leaders will be doing what they can to keep everyone informed and everyone as safe as possible.
