But decisions by the local Board of Health will remain in effect.
Frederick, Md. (KM) Frederick County will align with Governor Larry Hogan’s orders to lift the capacity requirements for businesses such restaurant, bars, retail establishments, barbershops, nail and hair salons. beginning at 5:00 PM on Friday. But orders issued by the County Board of Health will remain in effect. That announcement was made by County Executive Jan Gardner during her public information briefing on Thursday.
“Restaurants must continue to have all their tables spaced at least six feet apart, and maintain six-feet of distance between patrons who are waiting in line for a table, or to pick up carryout,” Gardner says. “Masks continue be required at all times except when people are eating and drinking.”
Gardner says tables can now have ten people; previously, they could only seat six people. “Buffets are now allowed to open though there are limitations including six-feet distance between patrons using the buffet and certain sanitation requirements,”: she says.
Houses of worship no longer have to comply with capacity restrictions. “Religious facilities may not have a capacity limitation anymore, but they should continue to follow all the state health directives, including the six-foot separation between people from different households, and masks continue to be required,” says Gardner.
But the County Executive said actions taken last year by the Board of Health are not affected by the Governor’s orders. “They include a limit on social gatherings. Social gatherings either indoors and outdoors are limited to 25 people,” she said. “Social gatherings include parties, cookouts, parades, celebrations, festivals and fundraisers.”
Restrictions placed on on wedding venues Board of Health remain in effect. They are limited to 50% of capacity, and may not serve food at a buffet or in self-service format. “Gyms, fitness centers, aquatic centers, self-defense schools remain at 25% capacity,” says Gardner.
She says these restrictions can only be lifted by the Board of Health, which consists of the County Council and the County Executive with the Health Officer presiding.
County Executive Gardner urged citizens to continue practicing safety measures, including the wearing of masks and social distancing. Despite the progress being made against COVID-19, she said the pandemic is not over.
By Kevin McManus