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From our neighbors who are unhoused, to those who are housed but live with people who are highly vulnerable to COVID-19, to travelers passing through town, we need safe spaces that keep people out of the hospital unless they medically need to be there.
This is why a major part of our planned pandemic response, in addition to expanding medical capacity*, is standing up housing for quarantine, isolation, and recovery throughout the county. (Like the new COVID wing at Harborview, which I toured this week.)pic.twitter.com/vSFKVa89vf
To put things in perspective, as of today, we believe we will need up to 3,000 or more beds in King County. That means utilizing land and buildings we already own, properties lent from public and private entities, and facilities with move-in-ready resources equipped.
Actions at this pace, on this scale, do not allow for the kind of outreach and public process that you and I are used to, and I am sorry for that. However, the all-encompassing nature of this emergency means the need to move quickly and nimbly has to be our priority at this time
It was necessary to declare a state of emergency in order to allow our teams to work around the clock, to waive procurement rules, and to do everything possible to protect our residents.https://www.kirklandreporter.com/news/more-than-100-quarantine-rooms-are-planned-for-king-county-covid-19-response/ …
This virus recognizes no jurisdictional distinctions, and this emergency will impact each of us in significant ways. Just like you, I am committed to doing everything in my power to keep our communities safe in this situation.
Given some confusing reports in the news, I want to clarify: These sites are all being used to respond to this emergency. There is no hidden agenda. Once this time has passed, we will work with our city and unincorporated King County partners to assess next steps for the sites.
These sites will not be transitioned for other purposes without those discussions.
We are hearing from some that siting in their community causes further disenfranchisement. I acknowledge the historical legacy that race and racism bears on geography and economics and the trust in healthcare and other systems that have a past riddled with inequities and bias.
I also acknowledge that the availability of land and facilities in some communities versus others is attached to that same unjust legacy.
We are also aware of the profound disenfranchisement of those who have no home, a population that has long exhibited stark racial disproportionality. Our equity and social justice work calls us to identify those who will be most affected by an action—or inaction—and center them.
The pattern of this virus’ impact has been clear—it is most harmful to those who are older, who have underlying health conditions, and who cannot fully implement Public Health guidelines around social distancing and hygiene.https://publichealthinsider.com/2020/03/05/my-loved-ones-are-at-high-risk-for-coronavirus-time-to-make-some-plans/ …
I appreciate the constructive feedback and offers of assistance from community members. Your help will allow us to both adjust our response now and better prepare for the future.
This is a trying time, and it will test all of us as leaders. In times of public emergency like this, people look to government for help and answers. We are trying to provide those answers as quickly and clearly as possible.
We must demonstrate a unity of urgency and purpose, and use all the tools at our disposal to serve the common goal of keeping our region as stable and healthy as possible.
It will take all of us. It will take patience. I’m proud to work with you as we move forward.
And finally: Don't hoard the hand sanitizer. Leave a roll of TP for the next family. Think of others around you. We're all in this together.pic.twitter.com/QJG1omIvBF
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