SAN ANGELO, Texas — Since the start of November, Tom Green County has reported more than 1,900 cases of COVID-19 and 13 deaths.
"We're right on that cusp between when we're going to be able to make it through OK, and when we'll have a disaster," Tom Green County local health authority Dr. James Vretis said.
Tom Green County Judge Steve Floyd has been the authority figure for the majority of decisions regarding COVID-19 in Tom Green County, however, if hospitalizations reach more than 15% capacity for seven consecutive days, neither Mayor Brenda Gunter nor Floyd will have much of any control over possible restrictions, because of Gov. Greg Abbott's orders.
"If we go over 15%, my discretion is gone. It's handed to the Governor. At that point in time, Dr. Vretis has all of the power, and his power basically is to shut down businesses and events," Floyd said.
In an attempt to slow the spread of COVID-19 before hospitals reach 15% capacity, Floyd announced the formation of a program that will send compliance officers into San Angelo-area businesses and events to encourage and ensure COVID-19 guidelines are being followed.
"This new program will hopefully provide a little bit of encouragement or assistance and remind people that it is within their hands, and maybe we can maintain the freedoms that we're enjoying right now," Floyd said.
City and county officials were unable to disclose many details about what the program will entail, but Floyd said meetings will start next week to allocate funds to hire the compliance officers, who will be volunteer off-duty law enforcement officers.