WAUKESHA — Waukesha County has loosened some of their restrictions now allowing gatherings of up to 100 people.
Previously, Waukesha County was only allowing gatherings of up to 50 people. However, on Thursday, that number doubled.
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Waukesha County Executive Paul Farrow shared the news Thursday, saying, "The decision to increase the large gathering recommendation is based on a methodical course of action knowing that positive cases in Waukesha County have remained stable, hospitals can safely treat all patients in the area, testing capacity has dramatically increased, and our team of public health nurses and contact tracers are growing.”
With this expansion, some Waukesha businesses may choose to open their doors Friday, or expand their operations, according to Farrow.
"The health and safety of the public is my top priority. We have already seen essential businesses take extraordinary steps to continue to provide service while keeping their employees and members of the public safe, and there’s no reason why other businesses can’t do the same," said Farrow in a statement.
Farrow and Waukesha County are urging residents to keep social distancing in mind when out in public.
According to the press release, "All individuals, when in public, at county parks, outdoor recreation areas, or at shopping malls or similar locations should consider maximizing physical distance from others. The large gathering guidance has been issued as a recommendation, rather than an order, to allow residents to safely conduct business and other activities moving forward."
The county will reevaluate the large gathering recommendation near the end of June. If COVID-19 seems to improve, they will raise it but if things are looking worse, they may be forced to lower the number back down.
According to the county's press release, "In the case of a dramatic increase in cases of COVID-19 in the county, or the inability of area hospitals to care for patients in need of treatment, the county may be forced to issue orders to help reduce the spread of the disease."
To read Farrow's full statement, click here.