May 4, 2020

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Sara Floor, Communications Manager
916-327-7500 ext. 516

SACRAMENTO – California State Association of Counties (CSAC) issues the following reaction to Governor Newsom’s COVID-19 announcement. All statements can be attributed to Graham Knaus, CSAC Executive Director.

“California’s counties moved swiftly to enact measures to flatten the curve of COVID-19 and reduce the impacts to our hospitals, healthcare systems and communities. Thanks to coordinated and consistent public health measures, and remarkable patience and commitment by the public, we have been successful in slowing the spread of COVID-19.

We appreciate the tireless efforts of our 58 Counties, Governor Newsom, his Administration and the Legislature to protect the health of all Californians during this tremendous public health crisis. Through compliance, community surveillance and vigilance, we can protect public health while recognizing the differences from region to region and county to county. We applaud Governor Newsom for his stewardship, responsiveness and emphasis on local flexibility while protecting public health.

Many of California’s Counties are looking forward to embarking on the next phase of the COVID-19 response. Counties are preparing readiness plans and needs assessments, and welcome the opportunity to proceed with Stage 2 activities in consultation with local health systems, businesses, and vulnerable populations. California’s Counties applaud the Governor’s measured plan to move to Stage 2 and welcome coordination with the state on readiness, specific needs, and resources, including funding, technology, and workforce.

No matter where you are in California, it is critical to understand that personal safety measures are as important as ever. The virus is not gone or wiped out. However, COVID-19 has not impacted all regions or counties in California equally. As we begin to reopen segments of our economy, handwashing, physical distancing, wearing face coverings and staying home as much as possible are still recommended and necessary actions to prevent catastrophic surges of this virus.  

We appreciate and applaud the continued cooperation of all Californians with local and state public health orders. We look forward to a continued, close partnership and engagement as counties take incremental steps to safely reopen California.”

California State Association of Counties (CSAC) is the voice of California’s 58 counties at the state and federal level.# # #