Summary
To: Town Commission
From: Stefan Massol, Director of Support Services
Date: 5/4/2021
______________________________________________________________________
Subject: Consideration of Phase 3 COVID-19 Mitigation Measures
Background/Problem Discussion: It has been fourteen months since the Town began responding to the COVID-19 pandemic. Over many months our services and workplace practices evolved as circumstances changed and understanding of the virus improved. Belleair found ways to conduct more business virtually, online and by phone, while also making in-person interactions available with health and safety precautions in place. As a result, we were able to continue to effectively and safely meet the needs of residents and businesses.
At this time more than 219 million doses of the vaccine have been administered. 27% of the US population has been fully vaccinated and 41% have received at least one dose, which is consistent with rates of vaccination locally in Pinellas County. Among those 65+ years-of-age 66% are fully vaccinated and 81% have received at least one dose.
Based on these trends and new CDC guidance staff recommends that the Town ease certain requirements for temperature screening and quarantine. Given the widespread availability of vaccines and lessons learned it is our recommendation that the Town Commission consider the following changes for a phase 3 reopening:
1) Displaying signage reminding everyone to self-screen for symptoms and no longer requiring staff to conduct temperature scans;
2) No longer requiring quarantine for fully vaccinated employees who have had a close contact with a positive case but who have no symptoms;
3) Allowing certain groups to enter and participate in programming without masks, such as minors with permission of their parent or legal guardian and adults claiming a personal medical exemption;
4) Removing all mask requirements at town facilities beginning in June or July;
5) Considering fewer restrictions on summer camp and other recreation programming, pending updated guidance in May.
Staff would continue to make personal protective equipment available to staff and hand sanitizer available to the public. Should there be evidence in the future of a rapid rise in cases or another major outbreak in our area the Town can consider readopting more protective measures if warranted.
Recommendation: Approval of Phase 3 COVID-19 Mitigation Measures as proposed (or amended).
Proposed Motion: I move approval of Phase 3 COVID-19 Mitigation Measures as proposed (or amended).