Healthcare update:
St. Lukes McCall–locally 1349 tests so far, with 73 positives with 21 pending. There have been some delays in getting results but they have changed labs pursuant of improving turn time. Currently 83 patients across SLHS statewide system, 89 last week. ICU: 15 covid positive, 21 last week. Ventilated (total) 29 vs 18 last week, includes all, not just COVID. Still transporting any COVID patients who require care to Boise. In the clinic there are care coordinators for COVID positive folks in the St. Lukes McCall system. They are calling and checking in with sick people and helping them stay safe and get better.
CDH: Elt Hasbrouck brought forth a public health ordinance to CDH board for mandatory masks to be voted on next Tuesday for Valley County. Folks can send Elt a note of support if they would like to.
Schools Update: Cascade Schools is working diligently on their reopening plan. CDH has been engaged and the plan is firmed up. It doesn’t include a mask requirement, but does provide for hand washing and social distancing. This has been a tough discussion for some in the community. McCall Schools is working through pandemic operations plans, consistent with CDC guidelines. The situation remains somewhat fluid, as guidelines are refined. Working with mask options, but accounting for students who may have a medical condition–latitude exists within CDC options.
Marketing update:
McKenzie shared the mask video with the group. Kindness campaign is moving forward–5,000 business cards have been ordered that say “You are appreciated” so folks can share a note of kindness with one another in the community. Crush the Curve is coming to the region–Monday, August 24th for businesses only at this time. Businesses need to have their contract in place with CTC by August 14th. This will be a car clinic and an electronic report will be sent out. Generally there’s a 2-3 day turn time. Pricing: $95/test (no insurance). Employer’s pay $20 admin fee and the remainder of the cost can be borne by insurance if there has been a known exposure. Another testing option for individuals is likely 1-2 weeks farther out, pending logistics. Some additional discussion about EMS and other essential employees and access to testing. Crush the Curve, Rite Aid and various lab elements are at play. Rite Aid still has free testing in McCall.
Government Update:
McCall extended the mask requirement to the end of August. There is now a civil penalty (fine) instead of a criminal charge for mask violations. This info has been shared with CDH, as there may end up being a lack of continuity between CDH and city implementation. The mask up McCall signs are deployed and businesses have been appreciative. Officers are offering masks to people before giving out a ticket. Cascade is following the status quo for now.
Business update:
Who’s doing events? Ponderosa Center is looking at a small outside event, if safe and if there’s buy in from their board. Jug has had all events cancel with the exception of one small wedding. Rotary is looking at a spread out outside event at the Activity Barn–lots of space and options. Golf tournament seems to have went well. It was noted that some private event venues have recently hosted large events (200+ people) for weddings where patrons are not wearing masks.
Andrew will set up a fall planning committee for business resilience: Colby, Nicole, Lindsey, Suzanne, David, Anette. Goal is to help businesses get set up for winter resiliency. Discussion about doing a computer and materials drive for local students–wiped used computers might be helpful, as long as process and access to internet is figured out.
Adjourn