March 19th, 2020
Town of Avon Sarah Smith-Hymes
Every day, as the acceleration of coronavirus infection rates are confirmed, our new reality comes into clearer focus. Eagle County is one of Colorado’s hot spots, with a disproportionate rate of infection based on test results to date; our visitor based-economy has been disproportionately impacted too, as the shuttering of businesses large and small have left many without an income. But there is good news out of China today that demonstrates that we CAN bring this pandemic to a halt: for the first time, there are zero new local transmissions of the virus in China. China accomplished this by imposing extreme quarantine measures on a compliant population. We can accomplish the same net result through government action and personal responsibility, but it will only happen if every one of makes the necessary changes to our daily lives by adhering to Public Health Department order, which now limits gatherings to fewer than 10 to accomplish social distancing, and recommendations from health professionals.
At the Town of Avon, the measures we have taken to provide essential municipal services while protecting the health and safety of our staff and community at large have evolved along with the crisis:
Sustaining our local business community and supporting individuals financially impacted by the health crisis is a priority across the county. The Vail Valley Partnership, in cooperation with Eagle County Public Health, the Colorado state government, and other trusted sources, has put together an invaluable resource page. Included are links to all the COVID-19 precautions and updates as well as information on job postings, unemployment resources, disaster business loans and a recovery guide.
Although the Avon Town Hall is currently closed, we are here to serve you to the greatest extent possible. Don’t hesitate to contact me directly if you need help. Ssmithhymes@avon.org.