Employee health top priority for county

Monday, March 23, 2020
Red Willow County officials follow “social distancing” guiding at a county commissioners’ meeting this morning, as they and commissioners discuss the county’s emergency efforts to control the spread of and lessen the possibility of exposure to the coronavirus and COVID-19. Officials at the meeting were: from left, Sue Wesch, Alan Kotschwar (hidden), Paul Wood, Pam Klug, Lori O’Dea, Gretchen Wiebe, Kristi Korell and Greg Holthus. Not shown are Tami Teel and commissioners Steve Downer and Earl McNutt. Commissioner Cayla Richards was attending via telephone, as she is “self-quarantining” after a recent trip to Mexico.
Connie Jo Discoe/McCook Gazette

McCOOK, Neb. -- As of Monday morning, the courthouse and the sheriff’s office were closed to the public, although offices are still staffed and courthouse business could be conducted by calling individual offices.

The jail will offer video visitation with inmates, and new inmates will be screened before they’re lodged. The county’s health department is open, but like any other location, it’s limited to 10 people or less at any one time. Interim health department director Pam Klug said, “Limit to 10, and with 10, screen,” meaning questioning anyone coming in about their current health conditions.

Commission chairman Earl McNutt said he wants the public to know they’re doing all they can to continue to provide services, while at the same time being sensitive to county employees’ health. The bottom line is, he said, practice good hygiene, and “Stay home if you’re not feeling well. As leaders of this county, we can bring back a sense of calm. Panic mode is not any good at all.”

A visit by a state VSO officer Wednesday and Thursday has been postponed.

Veterans who need more information are asked to call 308-345-2385

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