City of Platteville Advocates Residents Comply with Grant County Health Department Recommendations

PLATTEVILLE, WI (May 14, 2020) - While the Supreme Court has overturned Governor Evers and Secretary Palms Emergency Order #28 titled “Safer at Home”, the City of Platteville will continue to advocate residents comply with the key components of the order, as directed by the Grant County Health Department.

The Grant County Health Department strongly encourages all Grant County residents to voluntarily comply with the following components of the Safer at Home Order:

• Maintain at least 6 feet between yourself and others;
• Do not congregate in groups larger than 10 people without physical distancing between groups;
• Wash your hands frequently;
• Disinfect frequently touched surfaces;
• Cover coughs and sneezes.

“With these unprecedented times, it is unfortunate the Supreme Court ruling didn’t offer a scaled reopening approach to allow individuals, businesses and county/local governments the opportunity to assess best practices and next steps to move forward,” stated Platteville City Manager, Adam Ruechel.

The presence of COVID-19 has caused a variety of thoughts and opinions ranging from those who are very concerned about the virus and take extra precaution, to those who have little to no concern. “As a municipality we are required to do our best to offer our services to this wide spectrum of residents. Please be reminded this virus is still present in our daily lives,” Ruechel noted. As of 2 p.m. on May 13, 2020, an additional 2 positive COVID-19 tests and 1 new death were reported throughout the county. This brings the county total to 71 total positive cases and 10 total deaths.

Grant County will be releasing more detailed public health guidance, by sector, on the many things that businesses and organizations should be doing to prepare for a safe reopening.

Due to the City of Platteville not having an official health department, the city is required by statute to follow the guidelines created by a county health officer when put in place.

“In order to ensure we are continuing to offer services to our residents, but do so in a safe manner, I am requiring all municipal buildings to continue to operate under the “Safer at Home” guidelines at this time,” stated Ruechel. “We look forward to re-opening our City facilities in a safe, responsible manner. While things may not be the same as they were before the crisis, we will adapt with hopes that the community will emerge stronger,” he added. The City of Platteville would like to thank the community for their patience and understanding.