Statements on Governor Inslee’s Announcement
Sunday, November 15, 2020
Dave Somers, Snohomish County Executive
“With COVID-19 cases rapidly rising, action must be taken to save lives and the capacity of our health care system. Our state has reached a tipping point where doing nothing is not an option. Clearly, the status quo is not working. We support the Governor’s decisive action to save lives. We will do all we can in Snohomish County to protect our most vulnerable residents, preserve our medical capacity, and keep our small businesses functioning. I am very worried about impacts to our local economy, particularly after the rough year we’ve had. I will continue to be a strong advocate for more federal funding to help us through this wave of the pandemic. We are all beyond frustrated with the need for these measures, but they are necessary to push the curve back down. We’ve done it before and can do it again.”
Cassie Franklin, Mayor, City of Everett
“With COVID-19 cases on the rise, affecting more and more of our neighbors, friends and family, it’s clear that we need to do more to slow the spread of this public health threat. Bold actions that align with the recommendations of public health experts must be taken. We support the Governor’s difficult decision and know it will help in our effort to save lives. I am very worried for our small businesses and our residents who will be affected by these necessary actions as they will intensify the toll COVID-19 is already having on our economy and in our way of life. I will fight and advocate for federal funding to support our economies as we work together to combat this pandemic. My team at the City of Everett will prioritize finding ways to support our local economy and work with business owners to find innovative solutions.”
Dr. Chris Spitters, Health Officer, Snohomish Health District
“I regret the restrictions being necessary, but we need to put on the brakes now to keep from overwhelming the already stressed health care system. These aren’t across the board shutdowns, but rather a strategic freeze within those sectors and situations that are linked to this recent surge in cases. We need everyone to join in and respect the restrictions to turn this around.”