BAKERSFIELD, Calif. — In his latest coronavirus briefing, California Governor Gavin Newsom said that the state could begin moving into the next phase of reopening by the end of the week. Now county officials are jumping on plans to get Kern businesses back up and running.
County spokesperson Ryan Alsop posted on Twitter Tuesday, saying lower risk workplaces that fall under Stage 2 of the governors plan can reopen Friday. This includes bookstores, clothing stores, florists and sporting goods stores.
Alsop said these stores can reopen but cautions they continue to operate with modifications and adaptations like curbside pickup.
Gov. Newsom said that on Thursday the state will put out the guidelines that will need to be met and modifications that need to be made in order for businesses to begin opening with the new modifications in place.
“This is a positive development because we’re no longer being told that all counties are going to be treated the same,” said Kern County Supervisor Zack Scrivner.
Reopening of offices and seating in restaurants are also part of the Stage 2 reopening but will occur at a later time, Newsom said.
"There is obviously consideration for adjustments moving forward," Alsop said. "So, this is a starting point and a considerable starting point."
County Supervisor Mike Gleeson questioned Governor Gavin Newsom's approach on reopening California during the Board of Supervisors meeting Tuesday. Gleeson said he wants Kern County to have more authority on reopening the county on its own terms.
"We're shutting down businesses in areas that have no [COVID-19] incidents, how does that make sense to the mom-and-pop?" Gleeson said.
