In reaction to the increase of COVID-19 cases around the state, Forsyth County has declared a State of Emergency, effective March 18, 2020. The declaration calls for all available resources of the county to be used as necessary to cope with the impact on Forsyth County.
At a press conference on Wednesday, Forsyth County Board of Commissioners Chairman Laura Semanson said that it was a decision that was about utilizing resources available. “By declaring a State of Emergency, the county will be able to allocate personnel, financial and other resources to meet the needs of the county at this time,” said Semanson.
Semanson adds that they wanted to be proactive against the spread of COVID-19 into the area. “The intention of the state of emergency is for us to be able to be more reactive, more responsive and to be able to act nimbly and quickly and shift our resources, whether they be personnel or finances to address the problems as they present,” she says.
Chris Grimes, Director of Emergency Management Agency, thanked the public for their support and committed to keeping everyone updated as much as possible through the county’s website, as well as their social media pages. “We want to commit to using our resources efficiently and effectively to support all local agencies, including our local healthcare system,” says Grimes.
Sheriff Ron Freeman also showed his support with the decision and wanted the public to understand what the declaration really means. “It’s simply that it gives us additional authority – like against price gouging. We are not shutting businesses or restricting movement. We just need to better respond to our community’s needs. Nobody is panicked. We are well prepared. We are prepared to provide you whatever services you need.”
He also wanted to reassure the public that, should they need any public servant, everyone will be available, even if the county offices are closed. “You can expect nothing different from us, should you need us.”
Sherriff Freeman encouraged everyone to continue social distancing and to remain positive. “We will get through this together, the Forsyth County way – taking care of each other. And we will come out better than we were.”
“We feel this is the prudent thing to do in this time to help flatten the curve of this disease,” says Semanson.
As part of the response, beginning March 19, all Forsyth County government buildings are closed to the public, with the exception of the County Administration Building during Board of Commissioner meetings and work sessions
For more updates on Forsyth county’s response, as well as county closures, postponements and cancellations, please visit Forsythco.com/COVID-19.
