Pandemic Restrictions Lifted

For Immediate Release: Thursday, July 01, 2021

Pandemic restrictions lifted for county buildings

En español

After a year and a half of compliance with public health restrictions imposed during the COVID-19 pandemic, Washington County officially lifted these requirements within its buildings this week as allowed by a statewide executive order that Governor Kate Brown issued earlier this month. 

The change comes as Oregon nears the milestone 70% of all eligible adults statewide having received at least one dose of COVID-19 vaccine. Washington County continues to lead the state on this measure with 73% of eligible adults in the county having received at least one dose.

As the county transitions into fully re-opening, the public is still encouraged to check with individual offices and programs about the availability of in-person services as appropriate. Some lines of service at the county may continue being provided remotely on a case-by-case basis. 

“The county’s operational stance during the summer months can best be described as ‘transitional,’” said County Administrator Tanya Ange. “This means that many departments will be evaluating lessons learned and new efficiencies gained through online service options and telecommuting.”

Although statewide requirements may have been lifted, people may still encounter others who choose to wear face coverings and take other protective public health measures as a personal choice. Public health officials point out that continuing these practices can help prevent the spread of seasonal flu, the common cold and other respiratory illnesses. In support of these public health practices, the county will continue providing hand sanitizer and mask dispensers in county buildings for the foreseeable future.   

“As we strive to center the health and well-being of our employees, we also know that some will feel more comfortable continuing to wear face coverings. To support that adjustment, everyone is encouraged to help normalize mask-wearing by showing kindness and respect for all individual needs and choices,” said Ange.

Although protective requirements are being lifted and vaccination rates are high, the impact of the pandemic is far from over. According to the Oregon Health Authority, there have been nearly 27,000 confirmed COVID-19 cases in Washington County since the virus was first detected and 252 county residents have died. Although Washington County’s Latino/Latina/Latinx community makes up more than 15% of the county’s population, it has come to represent 38% of known cases due in part to the disproportionate reliance that historically marginalized communities have had on front-line employment. 

The spread of the virus and the protective measures meant to stop it also significantly affected the local economy in Washington County, particularly businesses relying on in-person customers. Washington County will be providing additional information over the months ahead about efforts to support the community’s continuing recovery from the pandemic. 

More information about vaccinations and the county's response to the COVID-19 pandemic can be found here: https://www.co.washington.or.us/COVID-19   

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