June 29, 2020

Today, Governor Kate Brown announced that face coverings will be required in all indoor places open to the public throughout all of Oregon, effective July 1.   Over the past month, COVID-19 has continued to spread in urban and rural communities.  Governor Brown stated “I do not want to have to close down businesses again like other states are now doing. If you want your local shops and restaurants to stay open, then wear a face covering when out in public. It’s up to all of us what happens next.” Mask, Face Shield, Face Covering Guidance and a “Mask Required” sign for businesses are available through the following links:

https://sharedsystems.dhsoha.state.or.us/DHSForms/Served/le2351j.pdf

https://sharedsystems.dhsoha.state.or.us/DHSForms/Served/le2728.pdf

Multiple resources are available through wraparound services for individuals who have been instructed to isolate or quarantine due to COVID-19.  Some of these resources include financial assistance, food bank information, grocery pickup/delivery, health insurance, and Veterans services.  Information is available at: https://neojic.unioncountyor.gov/2020/06/23/wrap-resources/.

Oregon Health Authority (OHA) announced five new confirmed cases for Union County bringing the total number of COVID-19 cases to 327 which is a total of 18 new cases since the report issued Friday.  Union County has a total of 1,537 negative tests returned according to the OHA website. Wallowa County has a total of eight cases.  Investigations, contact tracings, and additional testing continue in both counties.  Statewide, there are a total of 8,485 cases. 

The Union County Incident Management Team (IMT) will be hosting a community briefing on Tuesday, June 30 at 6:00 p.m.  The purpose of the meeting will be an opportunity for leadership to answer key questions that have been surfacing locally regarding COVID-19.  Due to physical distancing requirements, the briefing will be provided virtually and live-streamed on the NE Oregon Joint Information Center Facebook page.  The briefing will also be available for later viewing at www.neojic.union-county.org.

The City of La Grande Parks & Recreation Department announced the reopening of Veterans’ Memorial Pool effective Monday, July 6^th.  Pool hours will be 6:00am – 2:00pm Monday/Wednesday/Friday with many restrictions. 

• Lap swimming will be available during posted times with one person per lane and the therapy pool available for physical therapy clients and senior exercise participants.
  • Showers and locker rooms will be closed with the exception of the restrooms. Please come to the facility in your suit already showered.
  • Entry will remain at the front entrance, but one-way directional signage will guide you after you enter. Exit will be out the East door.
  • 6-foot distancing requirements will be in place and no spectators will be allowed.

Expanded hours may be announced at a later date. Due to the evolving nature of these protocols, these are all subject to change with little to no notice. Please stay informed on the pool’s Facebook page or the Parks & Recreation website: www.lagrandeparks.org.