Williamson County commissioners terminate local disaster declaration, approve reopening plan

GEORGETOWN, Texas - The Williamson County Commissioners Court has terminated the county's local disaster declaration. 

The declaration, which went into effect March 14, was issued in order to "limit the development, contraction, and spread of COVID-19 in Williamson County, Texas," according to a press release sent from the county. 

“It is time for Williamson County to stand again and to grow in a way that leads our nation,” said County Judge Bill Gravell.

RELATED: Williamson County offering free COVID-19 tests for asymptomatic residents

The court also approved a plan to ramp up in-person access to Williamson County offices. 

“Over the last two months and in the midst of the pandemic, Williamson County continued to provide services to the citizens of our county,” said Commissioner Cynthia Long, who worked on the plan. "Many of those services became virtual, but I am pleased that we will be opening up to more in-person access again."

The county says the plan complies with all COVID-19 orders issued by Gov. Greg Abbott, as well as social distancing and other sound preventative practices recommended by the CDC. The plan may be subject to change daily, depending on the COVID-19 response and how that continues to evolve over time. 

RELATED: COVID-19 hits Williamson County EMS as demand for tests increases

County buildings will reopen by following procedures to ensure the safety of the public and county employees. County buildings will have signage stating that face-coverings are recommended, but not required, to be worn inside county buildings; however, cloth face-coverings will be mandatory when entering a courtroom based upon directives from the Office of Court Administration.

RELATED: Williamson County prepares to open courtrooms

Temperature checks may be required by elected officials for members of the public entering the Williamson County Justice Center, facilities where essential employees are working, and visiting the Williamson County Regional Animal Shelter.  

For more information, residents can visit the County's website. 

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