County commission chair Stacy Hall urges Habersham Countians to “come together and do what is required to rid our country of this terrible virus.” Hall made his remarks in a press release issued this afternoon after Gov. Brian Kemp ordered Georgians to shelter in place.
The Habersham County Commission reviewed the executive order and affirmed it. The order goes into effect at 6 p.m. on Friday, April 3 and will remain in effect until 11:59 p.m. Monday, April 13.
In summary, the order lists several business categories that must cease in-person operations and close to the public during this time. Remaining businesses fall into two broad categories: Critical Infrastructure and Non-Critical Infrastructure. Both of these broader categories are explained in information provided by the Department of Homeland Security.
Critical Infrastructure may continue in-person operations while the state encourages implementation of 16 recommendations.
Non-critical infrastructure businesses must follow social distancing guidelines, only engage in minimum basic operations, and meet 20 other requirements.
For individuals and families, all residents and visitors of Georgia are required to shelter in place in their residences. There are four exceptions to this rule:
- Engaging in Essential Services
- Working in Critical Infrastructure
- Engaging in Minimum Basic Operations
- Performing Necessary Travel.
Essential Services includes obtaining necessary supplies and services for your household and engaging in outdoor activities provided there is at least 6 feet between people who do not live in the same household.
The Governor’s Order supersedes all local ordinances and no local ordinance can be more or less restrictive.
The order can be enforced by several state agencies. Any person who violates this order will be guilty of a misdemeanor.
Habersham County has posted the order and accompanying information on its website at www.HabershamGA.com. The County strongly encourages residents to familiarize themselves with it.
“These directives were put in place by the Governor for the safety of every community within the state. It is imperative that we follow these guidelines,” says chairman Hall. “As a community, we are all eager for this time to pass, and it will. In the interim, let’s come together and do what is required to rid our country of this terrible virus.”
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