Submitted by City of Tumwater
Mayor Pete Kmet is urging residents and businesses in Tumwater to comply with Governor Jay Inslee’s order and “stay home, stay healthy.” To slow the spread of COVID-19 and help limit exposure to more vulnerable people, the State is requiring people to minimize opportunities for contact with someone who may have the virus.
“The best way to slow the spread of the disease is to drastically reduce interactions between people by increasing social distancing,” says Kmet. “It is critical that each of us do all that we can to self-isolate and it starts with staying home.”
The Governor’s order urges residents to take social distancing measures to limit interactions with others while allowing certain essential activities and work to provide essential business, government services, or public infrastructure. The order remains in effect for at least two weeks.
“The order does not prohibit you from going outside or taking a walk as long as you don’t go in groups. Fresh air and exercise are important to your health and wellbeing – that’s as important as ever. You don’t need to stay inside all the time,” says Kmet. “Be practical and take care of the basics – buy what you need for your family, but stay home and do what you can to limit the spread of the virus.”
According to Kmet, there are some essential activities residents may conduct as long as they maintain a social distance of at least six feet, including going grocery shopping, picking up medications, and caring for a family member or vulnerable person. Most important, outdoor activities, such as walking, hiking or running, are allowable.
Kmet says, “The City of Tumwater will maintain its commitment to provide essential services to our community– law enforcement, fire suppression and emergency medical services, streets, water and sewer utilities. These crews are at work and have taken necessary precautions to minimize exposure.” All non-essential employees are working remotely and available by phone, email, and online services.
All City parks and the golf course will be closed until further notice. Last week Kmet took action to close City Hall, all other City facilities and cancelled recreation classes, events, and meetings except for City Council meetings in accordance with a previous directive from the Governor.
There are specific essential business or government functions and workers who are not subject to the restrictions, among them are health care providers, public transportation and utilities, garbage collection, grocery stores, pharmacies, banks, and restaurants providing curbside pick up, delivery, and take out.
“I am proud of the response from our community. From individuals to organizations, many people are stepping up to help those who may need assistance in the days ahead. An easy way for folks to find support and local services is by calling 2-1-1,” says Kmet. This is a free confidential community service that connects those in need with utility assistance, food, housing, health, child care, after school programs, elder care, crisis intervention and much more.
Visit the City website for up-to-date information on City operations and response to COVID-19.
wwwci.tumwater.wa.us/our-community/covid-19-response
