County Judge’s Update

I want to begin by thanking you, the citizens of San Saba County, for the responsible conduct and great patience you have shown during this COVID-19 crisis. I credit your actions for flattening the curve and that our communities have escaped the brunt of this pandemic.

On Monday Governor Greg Abbott issued Executive Order GA-18 and has introduced a 64- page ‘Open Texas’ report located at gov.state.gov/opentexas that bears reading.

Stage One will commence on May 1st when churches and certain social events will have the ability to meet in-house with specified seating arrangements. All retail stores, restaurants, movie theaters, libraries, museums, and malls will be allowed to open at an occupancy capacity of 25%. Sporting activities of four individuals or less (i.e. golf or tennis) will be permitted. The ‘Stay at Home Order’ will expire midnight April 30th. Unfortunately, the opening of barbershops, beauty salons, and gyms will be announced at a later time.

San Saba and other counties with 5 or less confirmed cases of COVID-19 qualify to increase the above-mentioned occupancy capacity from 25% to 50%. We hope to achieve this as we comply with certain notification requirements, to be specified by the state health office, which will be posted on both the county and city websites on or before April 30th.

The governor stressed the importance of continuing to protect those individuals in our communities that are most vulnerable. He clearly emphasized, even recommended, that those who choose to continue to stay at home and/or to wear protective masks should continue to do so although they will no longer be required to do so. Stating also that although a business is allowed to open, it is not required to do so.

On my part, re-emphasizing the absolute need to protect those vulnerable, I wish to add my full support for the governor’s initiative. I recall what Benjamin Franklin once said: “Those who would give up essential Liberty, to purchase a little temporary Safety, deserve neither Liberty nor Safety.”

And as a senior citizen, who is affectionately and accurately called by my kids, the ‘old-man,’ I hope that you will allow me to make that statement. In the same breath however, I rush to add a note of caution with another of my favorite quotes: “Discretion is the better part of valor.”

Please continue to use good common sense and stay safe. I pray for God’s blessings on you and our beloved San Saba County.