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Smith County Commissioners announce changes to county business after disaster declaration

The county says residents should conduct as much business online as possible.

SMITH COUNTY, Texas — The Smith County Commissioners Court held a meeting Tuesday morning to discuss preparations and the status of governmental operations after the county was declared a local disaster due to COVID-19 (coronavirus) on Monday. 

“The continued spread of COVID-19 presents an imminent threat of widespread illness, which requires emergency action for the protection of the people of Smith County,” according to the disaster declaration signed by Smith County Judge Nathaniel Moran. “The implementation of mitigation strategies can slow the transmission of the disease.”

The meeting was opened to the public to comment.

The first speaker advocated for Smith County Jail inmates to provide training for jail staff. The speaker asked commissioners to immediately release people awaiting pre-trial (not convicted inmates).

Smith County Judge Nathaniel Moran says there hasn't been a discussion of shutting down the office. 

"I have no plans to close it at this time," he stated.

Moran said he is not recommending the county to take action like Dallas to shut down businesses, or to restrict gatherings.

"I believe that our community is built around respect for one another," he said. 

Former Cici's Pizza franchise owner and Tyler City Council member Bob Westbrook asked the county to not shut down restaurants until more data regarding COVID-19 is released.

Westbrook says this could result in employee layoffs and potentially the closure of those businesses.

Smith County Commissioners along with the City of Tyler, local hospitals, and local health officials, as well as school districts are taking the following steps regarding County Offices: 

  • Non-essential court cases will be postponed until after Easter. 
  • Justice of the Peace will postpone dockets until after Easter, including evictions. Walk-in traffic will shut down, but those offices can be reached by phone to set appointments. Residents can still pay their fines and fees. 
  • Those on probation will still have to report and follow the same guidelines as usual.

George Roberts with NET Health says he appreciates the county's consideration of the disaster declaration amid the coronavirus outbreak.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared the virus a global pandemic. In addition to this, both the United States and state of Texas have declared states of emergency.

The disaster declaration activates the county's Emergency Management Plan and will remain in effect for seven days unless it is continued or renewed by the Commissioners Court.

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