Mayor Hardie Davis discusses what re-opening Georgia means for Augusta

Posted: Apr 22, 2020 / 11:37 AM EDT / Updated: Apr 22, 2020 / 12:59 PM EDT

AUGUSTA, Ga. (WJBF) – Augusta Mayor Hardie Davis held a press conference on Wednesday, addressing what Governor Kemp’s plan to re-open Georgia means for the city.

Mayor Davis stated that Augusta is moving from “no operation to minimum operation” for business per Governor Kemp’s order, though all businesses must continue to comply by social distancing guidelines and enhanced sanitization practices.

The Mayor encourages all businesses to operate at a reduced capacity with employees wearing PPE.

It was also clarified that all bars, nightclubs, entertainment venues, live performance venues and amusement venues will remain closed under the Governor’s order.

MORE: Ga. Governor Kemp announces plans to re-open sectors of economy

Though churches are able to reopen, Mayor Davis advises parishes to follow the Phase 1 guidelines issued by the White House and encourages them to remain closed for the time being.

The city of Augusta should learn today or at least later this week if the Governor’s office will all local law enforcement to cite those establishments who do not comply with orders.

Mayor Davis reminds residents there is still a shelter in place order for the city of Augusta until April 30^th.

Richmond County Sheriff Richard Roundtree was also at the press conference. He addressed COVID-19 within the RCSO and says there are still only 2 employees who have tested positive, a contract medical worker at the jail and a deputy.

Sheriff Roundtree says they are “blessed” because if 25% of the law enforcement staff were to be impacted by COVID-19 like what happened in a neighboring municipality it would mean the loss of 104 deputies on the streets of Augusta for 15 days or longer.

Count on NewsChannel 6 for more details on what the governor’s order means for the residents in Georgia as they become available.

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