The mayors of Clark County want to recognize that this is a time of great stress and anxiety.
The swiftness with which the coronavirus has emerged globally is stunning; in less than two months we have gone from no known cases of infection to a global pandemic that is disrupting the way we live and our society functions. This sudden change is unsettling for everyone, and our caring and compassion for each other and those we serve is critical as we navigate the new challenges that will arise in the coming weeks.
Our response to COVID-19 has evolved quickly. As it continues to evolve, we’re committed to working with our councilors and leadership teams to care for our residents, businesses and employees through this crisis.
Because it’s believed that the virus will eventually touch every city, on Sunday the eight mayors held a conference call as a forum to share information and updates regarding our individual and collective response so far. A few points:
• Communication: It’s important that during this crisis, and its recovery, we assure effective and responsive communication, with a key message being that these emergency measures are being taken to prevent the spread of the virus so as to minimize its impact on the community, our health care infrastructure, and our economy. All of our communities need a well-coordinated and consistent regional message.
Clark County Public Health and CRESA have established a regional forum to coordinate that response. CRESA has established a Joint Information Center to coordinate communications among agencies and to the public, and to facilitate information sharing among agencies and Clark County Public Health. JIC participants convene daily. We’ve asked them to coordinate a regular briefing for the mayors.
• Emergency declarations: Declarations were issued by Clark County, Vancouver, Ridgefield, Battle Ground, Washougal, Woodland, and Yacolt. Jurisdictions have taken a consistent approach under emergency orders and operational changes to implement and enforce the recommendations by our Public Health officials. Social distancing, suspending or postponing nonessential services or activities, and partially or fully closing facilities (schools, libraries, and community centers) will help minimize the risk of spreading the virus.
• Finance and businesses: We’re all concerned about the impacts to business — particularly small businesses — and the economy. Many of our small-business owners and their employees have no safety net.
The Department of Revenue has reached out to finance officials across the state to coordinate technical assistance and potential relief to businesses. In addition, the Legislature passed a bill that is on its way to the governor that will provide relief and assistance resources.
• Vulnerable communities: All the mayors are concerned about the social isolation impacts of a preventative community response — particularly to our senior populations. The Vancouver Housing Authority may be a resource for approaches that can mitigate these impacts.
In addition, it’s increasingly necessary to develop a plan for our homeless population and newly unemployed individuals, especially families with children out of school. That plan may be a moratorium on water, sewer, and internet cut-offs, and evictions.
• How can you help?: Wash your hands frequently and avoid gatherings.
Check on that isolated neighbor or newly unemployed family. Can you help with food or child care?
Please don’t hoard food and household supplies. Consider donating extra items to a food bank so they can feed children and the elderly. Call your favorite restaurant and ask for a carry-out or a delivery, and one for your neighbor!
This is a swiftly changing situation and we will all need to be flexible, patient and understanding as we adapt our operations to meet the demands of our environment. There are no easy answers. We’ll recover and emerge stronger because of the relationships, partnerships, and the kindness we’re showing now.
