"The State is in charge," Fannin County Attorney Doss explained in reference to Emergency Orders

Fannin County Board of Commissioners met for their monthly meeting via teleconferencing on Tuesday, April 28, 2020, at 5 p.m. Having confirmed a quorum, the meeting was called to order by Chairman Stan Helton. First on the agenda was approving March 2020 meeting and the Special-Called April 8, 2020 meeting. Approved, the Board went on to read and discuss Public Comments. The comments reflect the confusion expressed by many regarding the Emergency Ordinances that are currently contradictorily in place. A local physician declared his approval of the Emergency Ordinances, understanding the importance of what it means to health workers and residents of our county. He asked the Board to use caution when reopening the county. A small business owner asked the Board to allow being able to return to work. He stated he received many calls at his business from confused customers. Local citizens and visitors to the area were confused about things such as roadblocks and fishing areas. He thought opening up would better serve the community. Others voiced their opinion as well. The overall views were almost even between feeling things should remain cautious, and those who thought it should be over and done. Chairman Helton expressed appreciation for all the letters and comments submitted to the Board of Commissioners by Fannin County citizens. After reviewing and discussing the new business, Chairman Helton turned it over to Eddie O'Neal, Director of Recreation, to explain the plans to reopen the Recreation Department beginning May 4, 2020. Most important to note is appointments will be needed to limit the number of people in the building. "No more than 38 people will be in the whole facility at one time," O'Neal continued, "Arrivals without an appointment will be turned away." The Silver Sneakers program will remain closed. Post Commissioner Glenn Patterson asked O'Neal if questions and temperature readings will be taken of visitors to the facility. O'Neal informed the Board, questions would be asked of everyone entering the building, and their temperatures would be checked. Chairman Helton thanked O'Neal and his staff for the work they've done in planning and preparing for reopening the Recreation Center. The policy and procedure, along with pertinent phone numbers, will be available on the county's website. The second item O'Neal brought to the Board was the need to replace several trash cans at Timmons Park. Rusty bottoms have made it necessary to order nine additional steel trash cans. The cost would be $5,104.44. Commissioner Patterson expressed, "We need to keep Fannin clean and beautiful." Commissioner Patterson nor Post Commissioner Earl Johnson expressed issues regarding the replacement of trash cans. It was approved for purchase. The next item of interest was the budget for Fannin County. In the first quarter, many departments were under budget. Chairman Helton complimented the department heads for their cooperation. Commissioner Johnson asked that "we use caution and be as conservative at this moment as we creep our way out of this as we possibly can; watch every penny that we have." The first quarter showed great promise for Fannin County. Increased revenue and decreased expenses. However, the Board all agreed the second quarter, as well as the rest of the year, might not fair as well. The impact of COVID-19 on Fannin County might not be visible immediately. County Attorney Lynn Doss provided a little insight into why so many are confused about Emergency Declaration Ordinances. The Office of the Governor has issued five significant orders. Some of those orders have as many as five subparts. Highlighting only a couple of points causing confusion among citizens between State and County. "There is nothing Fannin County can do. The state is in charge." Georgia Governor Brian Kemp made a state-wide Shelter-in-Place ordinance implemented nine days after health officials urged Fannin County to prepare for the impending effect of COVID-19 to the citizens of the county. Then on April 14, the Governor's Office issued Shelter-In-Place that restricted short-term rentals in the state of Georgia, which would remain in effect until April 30 at 11:59 p.m. This currently remains in effect. On April 20, The Governor's Office announced the reopening of some businesses, but the prior ordinances and their dates were not canceled. "The Shelter-in-Place essentially continues until Wednesday night, May 13. There is no issue where they can't stay closed," said Doss. Doss was referring to many who feel Governor Kemp is forcing cities and counties to reopen while the numbers are still increasing. Why the difference in expiration dates? The various orders Attorney Doss mentioned. Shelter-in-Place issued regarding rentals expires April 30, but the Public Health State of Emergency does not expire until May 13. The Public Health State of Emergency will currently still be in place, which is also referred to as a shelter in place order. Get where part of the confusion comes in? Here's the best link to find more information. Georgia.gov

Doss advised everyone to contact the Office of Governor if they need clarification. Ways to contact the Office of the Governor will be posted on the county website. Citizens taking sides on the subject are nearly even in numbers. If you feel it is in your best interest and your customers plus you follow state ordinances, some businesses can reopen now. Other businesses, such as short-term rentals, are still held by the April 30 date. If you are allowed to resume activity at this time or after April 30 and feel uncomfortable, you can remain closed. Commissioner Patterson shared his thoughts with Doss - "We've got a new normal, and it may be that way for a while. Safety has to be predominant when stores open up...(moving) forward with measured steps. Let's take small measured steps with a lot of caution. It is a two-edged sword." Commissioner Johnson said, "We're all shooting at a moving target all the time with the Governor's office. I disagree with the way it's been handled by the Governor's Office. It's not hard to understand how people can be confused about what's going on right now. This (COVID-19 situation) has hurt all tourist industries," he continued citing Pigeon Forge as an example. "There's not a 'one-size-fits-all' to this situation. We have to abide by what they (the State of Georgia) put forth." Commissioner Johnson also said, "There's nothing more important than my health and safety. From the White House to my house, none of us has ever been here before." Chairman Helton brought up the fact before the Fannin County Commissioners had initiated the now state overruled Emergency Ordinance on March 25, 2020, there had been numerous conferences with epidemiologists and other medical personnel. All of whom stressed the importance of restricting contact to avoid the spread. Dr. Dillon Miller explained what was coming and why it was in the public interest to "do something" before it hit hard. "We had nothing to really guide us," Chairman Helton said. Fannin County confirmed cases have remained low. There are also indications from emergency services that show "cases have gone down." It appears the goal of addressing the more significant issues and of keeping those from highly infected areas from coming up here becoming super spreaders was reached. "We effectively shut the door early," Chairman Helton continued, "When to open it and how far is strictly in the Governor's hands." Since the State of Georgia has stepped in, there was or is nothing Fannin County could do regarding whether it's work and play, as usual, short term rentals, or if restrictions would be necessary to protect the health of Fannin county residents. May 13, this could change when Governor Kemp's emergency powers given to him by the Legislature currently expire. Chairman Helton stated he reviews the Department of Public Health web site twice a day to be aware of the ever-changing information and stay informed. Saying it's important to be as able to act or react as quickly as possible when citizens contact the Board requesting, "do something." "When you just do something when it's not well thought out, there are always unforeseen results that could turn out to be more detrimental than the issue you are trying to correct," Chairman Helton commented. The board members all showed genuine interest in ensuring the best course of action in this unusual time, with health and safety the number one concern. Chairman Helton brought up the possibility of delaying non-critical capital improvement projects. All agreed to suspend non-critical capital improvement projects for the next 2-3 months until there was a better understanding of how COVID-19 would affect revenue in the county. Commissioner Patterson said, "Yes, with all the uncertainty, We do not need to put anymore undue distress on the citizens of Fannin County." Commissioner Johnson agreed, "I believe we don't need to spend a single dollar until the dust settles on this (COVID-19)." The next Fannin County Board of Commission meeting will be on May 12, 2020.

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