Autauga, Elmore County officials urge Gov. Ivey to allow for a ‘flexible approach’ to reopening

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April 26, 2020

As public officials and policymakers wrestle with the right approach for dealing with the COVID-19 pandemic, the narrative has shifted to reopening the economy, which is a decision thus far is being left up to the individual 50 states.

In Alabama, there is some division as to when the time is right to reopen. However, when the time comes, a group of elected officials in the adjoining Autauga and Elmore Counties are hoping Gov. Kay Ivey gives local governments more flexibility to avoid a one-size-fits-all approach.

The Elmore and Autauga County Commissions, along with mayors from both counties, signed a letter urging Ivey to leave much of the decision-making to local governments.

https://www.facebook.com/PrattvilleALgov/posts/10158531224019255

“Since the first notice of the COVID-19 crisis, our counties and municipalities have been constantly communicating on our approach and response to the various elements associated with the COVID-19 virus,” the letter stated. “Through these continuous communications and coordinated response, we believe communities are equipped to lead a balanced approach to reopen our local economies. As you and your advisors consider ways to reopen Alabama, the local governments of Autauga and Elmore County encourage a flexible approach that allows for the reopening of economies.”

It goes on to guarantee those local governments will adhere to CDC guidance along with personal responsibility and the “ingenuity” of local businesses.

The letter was signed by Elmore County Commission Chairman Troy Stubbs, Autauga County Commission chairman Jay Thompson, Coosada Mayor Anthony Powell, Deatsville Mayor Clayton Edgar, Eclectic Mayor Gary Davenport, Elmore Mayor Margaret White, Millbrook Mayor Al Kelley, Wetumpka Mayor Jerry Willis, Prattville Mayor Bill Gillespie and Tallassee Mayor Johnny Hammock.

@Jeff_Poor is a graduate of Auburn University and the University of South Alabama, the editor of Breitbart TV, a columnist for Mobile’s Lagniappe Weekly and host of Huntsville’s “The Jeff Poor Show” from 2-5 p.m. on WVNN.