SAN ANGELO, TX – Tom Green County Judge Steve Floyd and San Angelo Mayor Brenda Gunter announced Friday that he is approving the reopening of bars and distilleries in San Angelo.
According to a press release sent out by the City of San Angelo's Public Information Office, on Oct. 9, bars will be able to open at 50% capacity beginning on Wednesday, Oct. 14.
“We will certainly take advantage of the governor’s orders to allow bars and other businesses to reopen,” Judge Steve Floyd said. “Thanks to the great folks of Tom Green County and the City of San Angelo for helping us tame this virus and provide relief for ALL small business owners. We are awaiting to receive the official certification from TABC to be allowed to open. It is expected as we do qualify.”
Earlier this month Mayor Gunter wrote a letter to Gov. Abbott urging him to reopen the bars.
"I believe it was time for the state to allow greater occupancy levels and to allow the rest of the bars, music venues, wine tasting and distilleries to open. This city is comprised of many small businesses that are our economic backbone. When they were shut down, the whole city felt the impact. As difficult as it was, we all had to follow both the state and CDC guidelines to reduce the spread of COVID-19 in our community. I believe that we have been doing a great job in doing that – our positivity rate and case numbers are proof." stated Mayor Gunter in a release regarding reopening the bars.
Here is a video from the press conference Mayor Gunter held regarding bars reopening.
In Tom Green County since the start of the pandemic there have been 4,001 total cases of coronavirus. Of those 4,001 cases only 78 have died.
Tom Green County’s current COVID-19 hospitalizations are less than 15% of the local hospitals’ capacities. Under Governor Abbott’s order, the county judge may authorize the opening of bars and similar establishments at 50% occupancy, provided certain protocols are followed.
As recommended by trade associations representing bars, dance floors at bars and similar establishments must remain closed. Consistent with protocols for restaurants, all patrons must be seated while eating or drinking (with limited exceptions for sampling at breweries, distilleries and wineries) and must wear masks when they are not seated at a table. Additionally, tables must be limited to six individuals or less and all establishments must follow specific curfew guidelines. Also beginning Wednesday, October 14, all businesses other than bars can open to 75% capacity.
Want to find out if your favorite bar will be open? Click here to find out.
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