Snoqualmie Mayor Matt Larson joined three other Snoqualmie Valley mayors in sending a letter to Governor Jay Inslee requesting to move to Phase 2 of the Safe Start recovery plan, ahead of other King County cities.
The letter dated May 29, 2020, states, “Our cities have seen infection rates far lower than big cities in King County and we feel strongly that many of our small business can – and should – be able to open today, in advance of the remainder of King County.”
The letter further states, “We respectfully and strongly request that the Snoqualmie Valley be evaluated, and restrictions loosened separate from King county as a whole. We have all been meeting with our small businesses and know without a shadow of a doubt that the overwhelming majority can reopen safety, today, taking all recommended precautions, and many going even further.”
The “Stay Home, Stay Healthy” order ended on May 31. As of June 1, Washington’s phased reopening begins. Each Washington county will remain in its current phase but can apply to move between the phases or add new business activity based on specific requirements. King County Executive Dow Constantine will be submitting a request for a "modified" opening for King county, which would equal a Phase 1.5. A response from Washington State’s Secretary of health is expected within a week.
“Many Snoqualmie businesses have been financially devastated by the closures mandated to prevent the spread of COVID-19,” said Mayor Larson. “While we fully support measures to ensure the safety and health of the community from COVID-19, moving from Phase 1 to Phase 2 now would give businesses hope of recovery.”
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Contact:
Joan Pliego
City of Snoqualmie
425-281-3317
jpliego@snoqualmiewa.gov