Bend mayor questions whether Phase 2 reopening should start soon

Sally Russell wants to move cautiously

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ )-- Many people are anxious for the next steps in Deschutes County reopening plans, but there are also some concerns that it may be too soon to move forward with a broader Phase 2.

The Bend area and Deschutes County have been seeing more travelers from other areas. Bend Mayor Sally Russell told NewsChannel 21, if people do not adhere to guidelines it may set us back, and even prolong phase two reopening.

During Memorial Day weekend, there were even higher numbers of tourists in the area, and Russell says the hotel occupancy number has increased at various lodging partners in Bend.

She's concerned that fewer people are wearing masks outdoors, and as more businesses reopen, the 6-foot social distancing guideline may be ignored.

Phase 2 reopening could happen as early as a week from Friday, if the county is found to have consistently maintained safe guidelines and met other requirements.

It takes about two weeks to know whether the influx of recent visitors will lead to a spike in COVID-19 numbers. Because of that, Russell says moving into Phase 2 could be a risky decision.

"So I'd like us to wait a little bit longer, just to see if we have a huge surge in infections, before we go to a broader, looser structure," Russell said. "I think it also gives us at the city the opportunity to work with businesses and make sure we have the protocols."

"Because the most important thing in this conversation, as people begin to emerge out from the community is keeping our community safe. And ... the other point I should say is to make sure that our businesses can stay open."

In order to move to Phase 2, Deschutes County will have to ensure we did not see a spike in coronavirus cases, and that there is still enough protective gear  and contact tracing being done in the area. 

County Commissioner Phil Henderson said they plan to discuss potentially moving into Phase 2 at their meeting next Monday.