TIFTON — The City of Tifton has released a statement urging residents to “remain diligent” despite Governor Brian Kemp’s amended executive order allowing for the reopening of certain businesses while the shelter-in-place in the state of Georgia is still in effect.

“Mayor Julie Smith, Councilman Jack Folk, Councilman Johnny Terrell, and Councilman M. Jay Hall respect the position of our Governor and do realize the challenges he faced in making this decision for our State,” the release states “However, it is difficult to agree with Governor Kemp. As local elected officials, it is our obligation to stand firm in our opinion about what is best for our community and its protection given the current situation.”

The release reminds residents of the importance of remaining safe by practicing social distancing, proper hand washing and other preventative measures.

“It is now up to individuals to make the best decisions to protect themselves, their families and their businesses as well as their customers,” the release states. “Whatever your stance may be on this situation, it should not be about politics, it should be about our people, the citizens of Tifton.”

The release states that city officials have been in communication with Tift Regional Health System administration as well as other healthcare providers in the community and are “relying on facts and real-time information given by the Georgia Department of Public Health to assist and guide us as we make decisions or share information with the community.

“We are all concerned about the increased activity surrounding the COVID-19 virus and want to encourage everyone to err on the side of serious caution to continue to slow the spread of COVID-19,” the release states. “Our recommendation at this time would be to continue to shelter in place when possible, refrain from gathering of groups of more than 10 people, use PPE [personal protective equipment] when possible and keep social distancing of six feet apart along with proper sanitizing.”

The release states that city officials want to thank all of those in the business community that are doing the necessary steps in protecting the community by instituting sanitizing procedures, distancing, and overall implementing stricter rules for their patrons and if anyone experiences a business using exceptional safety protocols please let the city know through the City of Tifton social media outlets so they can publicly applaud them.

“They, along with those on the front lines protecting our community, need to be commended,” the release states. “We realize that there is a lot of confusion and fear at this point, but we will continue to be vigilant and keep the citizens of Tifton informed. Together, we can see our way out of this as a stronger community.”  

For questions or other concerns regarding the new order and its language, please contact the Office of Governor Brian Kemp Constituent Services at 404-656-1776.