By Amy Monteith, Hamilton
Regarding the loss of Public Health Officer Dr. Carol Calderwood:
What a tragic and unnecessary loss for Ravalli County, due to the short-sighted leadership of the County Commissioners and Sheriff.
Their disrespect for public health professionals during a global pandemic, and their poor choices, put all of our communities and citizens at risk. If they want to stop the spread of Covid-19, keep our local businesses open, and have schools be able to open for the well-being of students, families, teachers and support staff, they would follow Governor Steve Bullock’s mandate to “Mask Up Montana.”
The Commissioners and Sheriff must answer to the community and right their wrongs immediately. Just when we were feeling a little more comfortable going into and supporting our local businesses because people would be wearing masks, it is distressing to learn the mandate won’t be enforced consistently. Do the commissioners WANT the virus spread to be reduced? Do the commissioners WANT our local businesses to be able to stay open and have local citizens patronize these businesses? Do the commissioners WANT schools to be able to open safely for students, families, teachers and support staff?
Thank you to Dr. Carol Calderwood, Public Health Nurse Karyn Johnston, former PHN LuAnn Burgmuller and all the Public Health staff for their dedicated service, commitment and leadership during such challenging times. Those who have resigned will be sorely missed, and difficult to replace.
Mask Up Montana! Keep your distance, wash your hands, and get our kids back to schools that are safe due to the actions of responsible citizens taking effective measures now.