Rock County will begin reopening May 21.
At 8:00 a.m. Thursday, the county will rescind its current safer-at-home order and start implementing a new multi-phased reopening plan.
County Health Officer Marie-Noel Sandoval said the plan is considered guidelines and is not a health order, meaning it is up to the community to follow the rules but they can’t be specifically enforced by police.
Municipalities may implement their own local orders, which could have more opportunity for enforcement. Beloit’s city council approved its own during Monday night’s council meeting, which allows for potential citations if the order is not followed.
Rock County’s plan is based on a number of frequently reviewable health based criteria being used as benchmarks to reopen in three phases. The benchmarks are based on infection rates, testing capabilities, and local health care’s ability to respond.
Phase One allows public gatherings and businesses to reopen, with strong recommendations for 25 percent capacity and strict physical distancing.
Phase Two would increase that capacity recommendation to 50 percent.
County leaders urge residents to continue to follow previous guidelines of social distancing, wearing masks, and disinfecting potentially exposed objects.
Rock County’s full reopening plan is available for review here.
