COUNTY ORDERS SHORT TERM LODGING TO CEASE OPERATIONS

The County’s Acting Health Officer formally ordered short-term lodging facilities—including hotels, motels, and short-term residential-style rental units—to cease operations until the governor’s “Stay at Home” order and the County’s order prohibiting gatherings have been rescinded. The county issued the specific order Thursday to bring about compliance and assist in enforcement. Short-term lodging facilities may operate only if they are being used for COVID-19 mitigation and containment, such as serving the homeless population, or are being used to house workers supporting critical infrastructure. The county’s order also extends indefinitely the prohibition on gatherings, and continues the closure of all movie theaters, gyms, health clubs, bars, and other businesses. The order does not pertain to essential businesses.