When it comes to dealing with the coronavirus pandemic, Gov. Larry Hogan is issuing the restrictions, but it is often local officials who are fielding the questions.
Baltimore County Councilman David Marks said the questions he’s asked most is if people can leave their homes for a walk or a run.
“I’ve gotten that many times,” Marks said. “And the answer is of course you can do that.”
On Monday, Hogan ordered Marylanders to stay at home unless absolutely necessary. He did say it was ok to get some exercise. Previously, the governor had restricted social gatherings of more than 10 people and said we should stay at least six feet away from each other.
“I got a question the other day about whether a person can go to a cemetery to visit their loved ones,” Marks said. “And the answer is ‘of course.’ What I tell people is just use common sense.”
Baltimore County Executive Johnny Olszewski is holding a virtual town hall Thursday evening to answer questions from residents. He will be joined by other county officials, including School Superintendent Darryl Wiliams, Health Director Gregory Wm. Branch and Police Chief Melissa Hyatt.
An Olszewski spokesman said they’ve received some emailed questions in advance on topics like trash pickup, unemployment benefits, and remote access to the library.
One person has asked if it is ok to go fishing. The answer is yes if you need to fish for food, but social distancing and the prohibition against social gatherings still apply.
Marks said he has been hearing some grumbling about the restrictions, particularly their effect on the economy, but most are willing to give the governor the benefit of the doubt.
“They think he has set the right tone, he’s taken command of the situation, and they generally trust him,” Marks said. “And I hear that from people across party lines.”
Both Marks and Hogan are Republicans.
You can join the town hall at 6 pm at baltimorecountymd.gov/townhall.