Adams County approved for Phase 2

Businesses must adhere to safety criteria before opening

Katie Teachout, The Journal | Last updated May 22, 2020 12:43pm0

Katie Teachout count

Adams County businesses in compliance with safety criteria established by the Washington State Coronavirus Response (COVID-19) team can open for business, with the county now eligible for Phase 2 of the "Safe Start" program.

RITZVILLE — Adams County has been approved to move to Phase 2 of the four-phase state "Safe Start" program, Adams County Economic Development Director Stephen McFadden announced Friday morning, May 22.

The county commissioners applied for the variance to move to Phase 2 on Thursday morning, May 21.

According to the state Coronavirus Response (COVID-19) guidelines, business activities are not authorized to open until the business is able to meet all safety criteria as outlined by the state.

Guidance documents are posted on Governor's Inslee's website, as well as the following link:

Counties in Phase 2 may allow dine-in restaurants and taverns, in-store retail, professional services, hairstylists and barbers, outdoor recreation, construction, professional photography, pet grooming, fitness, real estate and additional manufacturing operations.

Author Bio

Katie Teachout, Editor

Katie Teachout is the editor of The Ritzville Adams County Journal. Previously, she worked as a reporter at The Omak-Okanogan County Chronicle, the Oroville Gazette-Tribune, Northern Kittitas County Tribune and the Methow Valley News. She is a graduate of Western Washington University.