HomeMy WebLinkAbout20201432.tiffApril 27, 2020
Weld County Commissioners,
RECEIVED
MAY 1 1 2020
WELD COUNTY
COMMISSIONER(
I am writing in regard to your announcement of the "Safer at Work" initiative. When I heard of this
posture, I was, to put it mildly, absolutely appalled; appalled at the ignorance of the COVID-19 numbers
and the currently accepted guidance and appalled at the blatant disregard for the well-being of the
citizens of Weld County.
With Weld County number three in the state for COVID-19 related cases and deaths despite having a
lesser population than the top five counties, this is not the time to encourage a widespread loosening of
restrictions. If you calculate the percentage of cases based on population of the top five counties, Weld
County is actually solidly number one. We should be even more prudent and cautious when considering
an appropriate time to ease restrictions. An increase in cases could easily overwhelm a healthcare
system that is already severely taxed with caring for COVID-19 patients. Not to mention, the increase
we could see in the number of deaths.
I can appreciate the guidance that has been outlined to keep customers and employees safe through
"Safer at Work;" however, with a large number of people not following current guidelines, as I've
personally observed, I am skeptical that the guidance will be followed. The message "Safer at Work"
promotes a perception that we can relax protocols, when in fact, we should be continuing them.
While you may believe this will stimulate the economy in Weld County, it may very well have quite the
opposite effect. I for one will be choosing to spend my money in a county where I feel confident that
businesses are taking precautions so that customers are not potentially exposed to the virus.
Additionally, should this increase the number of COVID-19 instances, as it is likely to do, businesses will
be shut down again for perhaps even a longer period. This is a time to be proactive, not reactive.
While I may not have a voice in your "Safer at Work" decision, I do have a voice in where I choose to
take my business and who I choose to represent me in the next election. I have maintained loyalty to
the businesses of Weld County, spending my stimulus check here. But, I no longer feel loyalty to a
county who does not demonstrate loyalty to the safety and best interests of Weld County citizens.
Sincerely,
'ter'
Stacy Bjerke
Fort Lupton, Colorado
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2020-1432
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