Archive: 2021 Media Releases

64 Result(s) Found

01.04.21 Jackson County names new Chief Administrative Officer
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

January 4, 2021

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KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Jackson County Executive Frank White, Jr. is proud to announce that Sylvya J. Stevenson will serve as the next Chief Administrative Officer for Jackson County. In this leadership role, Stevenson will be responsible for ensuring multiple County activities, programs and policies related to the Executive’s Office are implemented, in addition to providing supervisory support to various county departments.

“Sylvya is a woman of immense integrity with effective communication, project management, problem solving and relationship-building skills,” said Jackson County Executive Frank White, Jr. “Her determination, enthusiasm and new ideas will be a great addition to our team of forward-thinkers who are committed to improving how our government works. We have a lot of work ahead of us, but I’m excited to welcome Sylvya to Jackson County and look forward to her playing a key role in helping us achieve success.”

Stevenson brings her extensive experience, training and knowledge in local and federal government operations to Jackson County. For the past three years, she has managed multi-million dollar budgets while overseeing the day-to-day budget, finance and accounting activities as a master budget analyst for Criterion Systems/USDA. Stevenson has had proven success supervising multiple teams and implementing projects from planning to operation that improved transparency, enhanced performance and eliminated inefficiencies. 

Prior roles and responsibilities include multiple years of service with the City of Kansas City, Missouri in the Office of Management and Budget and with the City of Mission Hills, Kansas coordinating with special projects as the assistant to the city administrator.

“I am humbled and honored to have been selected for the Chief Administrative Officer appointment with Jackson County,” said Sylvya Stevenson. “While filled with excitement about the new opportunity, I look forward to working collectively with staff to responsibly and effectively serve the residents of Jackson County.”

Stevenson’s devotion to her professional career is matched by her passion for philanthropy. She is the founder and president of the National Congress of Black Women, Inc. – Kansas City, in addition to being a member of many other notable professional organizations including the American Society for Public Administration, Centurions Leadership Program, Kansas City Chamber of Commerce, Blacks in Government and the International City/County Management Association.

Upon completion of her Bachelor of Arts degrees in Political Science and Criminal Justice, Stevenson matriculated to the University of Oklahoma where she earned a master’s degree in Public Administration with a concentration in city management and public policy. 

Since being appointed County Executive, Executive White has worked to increase the diversity in senior leadership throughout the County. Stevenson is the ninth woman appointed to an executive leadership position during Executive White's tenure. She is assuming the role as Chief Administrative Officer after the retirement of Ed Stoll in September 2020. A picture and copy of her resume are attached.

 

01.13.21 Jackson County amends health order restricting dining

 

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

January 13, 2021

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Jackson County Executive Frank White, Jr. – in consultation with Jackson County Health Department Director Bridgette Shaffer, MPH and Emergency Management Coordinator Troy Schulte – has issued a new health order today that amends dining restrictions for bars and restaurants.

Under the new health order, Jackson County bars and restaurants will be allowed to serve food and alcohol until midnight with a hard exit for all patrons at 12:30 a.m. All other provisions related to indoor dining remain in effect.  The new order takes effect at 12:01 a.m. Thursday, January 14, 2021 and does not apply to businesses in the cities of Kansas City, Missouri or Independence. 

The new health order relaxes guidance from a previous order issued in November 2020 that required bars and restaurants to close at 10:00 p.m. due to a resurgence of COVID-19 cases in Jackson County.

“Let me be clear – our situation has not improved over the past two months. COVID-19 cases are up, our 14-day percent positive remains high as well as hospital capacity,” said Jackson County Executive Frank White, Jr. “However, to remain consistent with neighboring jurisdictions, lessen confusion among residents and create fairness for Eastern Jackson County businesses, we have decided to move forward in this manner. It is still dangerous to gather in large groups, so I urge residents to remain vigilant in their efforts to prevent the spread of the virus.”

“With cases of COVID-19 on the rise, we need community members to practice personal responsibility,” said Jackson County Health Department Director Bridgette Shaffer. “Due to the risks of dining in, please consider other options such as curbside pickup or delivery. Avoid situations where it may be challenging to maintain prevention measures such as mask-wearing and social distancing.”

Residents and businesses with questions about the new health order should contact the Jackson County Health Department by phone at (816) 404-9883 or via email at  COVID19@tmcmed.org. Additional resources can be found on the health department’s website at www.jacohd.org/coronavirus.

 

01.20.21 Jackson County installs 300-foot bridge on Rock Island Trail
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEWildwood Bridge 1

January 20, 2021

Wildwood Bridge is longest trail bridge in Jackson County

KANSAS CITY, MO. – Jackson County Executive Frank White, Jr. is excited to announce that the Rock Island Trail is now home to the longest trail bridge in the County. Today, construction crews installed the last 200-foot span of the Wildwood Bridge, making it a total of 300-feet long.

The new Wildwood Bridge is part of the work currently underway on the second phase of the Rock Island Trail, which stretches from Brickyard Road in Kansas City to the Truman Sports Complex. The bridge is not yet complete, and at this time, no one should walk on or cross the bridge. Each end is being blocked off to ensure compliance and safety.

“This is an exciting project because it adds another dimension to what we do best in the County—and that is trails,” said Jackson County Executive Frank White, Jr. “We know there is great demand, support and enthusiasm across the region to see the trail completed. I appreciate our Parks + Rec leadership, Rock Island team, contractor and partners who have worked diligently and collaboratively to get us to this moment of accomplishment today.”

The new bridge connects wooded areas and neighborhoods along the trail to the downtown Raytown area. It has two spans with a pier in the center that sits in 5-feet of limestone 22-feet below ground level.

Additional bridge details include:

Each span is prefabricated, delivered in multiple segments and assembled on site using two large cranes.

The 200-foot span installed today weighed 140,000 pounds.

The bridge is constructed of Corten weathering steel. The steel weathers to cover itself with a protective rust colored patina. The bridge deck will be concrete.

12-feet wide with 20,000-pound loading criteria to carry emergency vehicles if necessary.

“These features are among just two of the many reasons this trail will continue to be one of the most popular in Jackson County,” said Jackson County Parks + Rec Director Michele Newman. “Jackson County Parks + Rec is so thrilled to be bringing this very important project to our community.”

Phase two of the Rock Island Trail is 7.1 miles long and will have three access areas: Lot L at the Truman Sports Complex, the Downtown Raytown area and off Woodson Road in Raytown. Construction is expected to be complete in April 2021, weather permitting.

“The Wildwood Bridge will be an impressive sight and will no doubt be a point of interest on this project, only rivaled by the Vale Tunnel,” said Rock Island Project Manager Matt Davis.

The first phase of the Rock Island Trail was completed in June 2019 and included 6.5 miles of trail between Jefferson Street in Lee’s Summit to Brickyard Road in Kansas City. The historic Vale Tunnel, a former railroad tunnel, is a key feature of this first segment of trail to open to the public. This section of the Rock Island can be accessed from two trailheads – one at 98th Street and Bannister Road and the other at Hartman Park in Lee’s Summit.

The Rock Island Trail is a part of the Rock Island Corridor Project, a collaborative effort between Jackson County and the Kansas City Area Transportation Authority. Jackson County has taken the lead on the development and management of the trail, while the KCATA is focused on planning for future transit and economic development opportunities along the 17.7 mile corridor.

 

01.27.21 Executive, United WE Appointments Project Place 1st Appointee
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CBIZ’s Carolyn Watley Appointed to Jackson County Pension Plan Board of Trustees 

Kansas City, MO – January 27, 2021 –  The Office of Jackson County Executive Frank White, Jr., in partnership with the Appointments Project® today announce Carolyn Watley’s appointment to the Jackson County Pension Plan Board of Trustees. Watley’s appointment is the first following the announcement of the Project’s expanded programming to Jackson County. Started in 2014, the Appointments Project® has successfully placed 140 women on boards and commissions, including 28 percent of those appointments represented by women of color.  

“Carolyn Watley is an exemplary choice for the Jackson County Pension Plan Board of Trustees and she’ll bring a unique set of experiences and perspectives to the decision-making table,” County Executive White said. “Carolyn’s appointment is the first in our collaborative partnership with United WE’s Appointments Project® to increase the number of women on county boards and commissions, and we’ll continue to ensure that we’re drawing on the talents and diversity of all our residents.”

The Appointments Project® serves as a talent bank, advisor and advocate for women seeking opportunities to lead their communities and works to attract diverse, qualified applicants for appointed positions on boards and commissions. The Appointments Project® formula trains and mentors women through the process of applying for these positions, fast-tracking their ability to get appointed at every level of government.

“We created the Appointments Project® so boards and commissions could reflect the communities they serve,” said Wendy Doyle, United WE President & CEO. “The Appointments Project addresses the gender disparities in local civic leadership and we know Carolyn’s passion for serving her community will be a valuable addition to the Jackson County Pension Plan Board of Trustees.” 

Based on a growing number of success stories, the pipeline of women leaders is growing rapidly across the country. The Appointments Project® fills a critical need in creating a pathway to work with elected officials and better community representation that leads to better lives for all.  

A free public training event is planned for Tuesday, February 2, at 12:00 p.m. CT with local community partners Black Excellence KC, Greater Kansas City Chamber of Commerce, Sisters’ Circle Greater Kansas City and The Links (Jackson County, MO Chapter). The event will be conducted via webinar and allows Jackson County women to learn about leadership opportunities and guides them through the process of applying for these positions. “We encourage and invite everyone to learn more and join us in unlocking women’s potential for civic leadership,” County Executive White said.

To learn more about the Appointments Project® and RSVP for the training, visit www.united-we.org/appointments-project. 

About United WE

United Women’s Empowerment, or United WE (formerly the Women’s Foundation), aims to advance all women’s economic and civic leadership. Since 1991, we found and funded kindred spirit organizations and individuals who could advance women’s interests. Now we’re the bold voice of a new generation of empowered leaders. We unite people around unique ideas and pragmatic action that helps break down long standing economic, cultural and policy barriers to ensure a better life for all. Our work includes commissioning transformative research, supporting policy reforms, scaling our fast-growing Appointments Project® and advocating for reforms that honor the legacies of women. Join us. Visit www.united-we.org and connect with @UnitedWomensEmpower on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

About Appointments Project®

To create lasting change for women and their families, United WE focuses on relevant research and strategic partnerships. In 2014, United WE established the Appointments Project® to empower women and strengthen communities by increasing the gender diversity of civic boards and commissions. Through a landmark study, United WE identified the barriers causing women to be underrepresented on civic boards and commissions and established the Appointments Project® to improve the number of women serving. For more information, please visit www.united-we.org/appointments-project or follow us on social media (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram: @appointmentsproject).

 

 

02.09.21 Examiner’s Office seeks help identifying deceased woman
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

February 9, 2021

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – The Jackson County Medical Examiner’s Office is seeking the public’s help in identifying a woman who was found in the 1100 block of S. Park Ave. in Independence, MO on January 9, 2021.

She is a white female believed to be in her late 30s or early 40s, with short brown hair and brown eyes. She is 5’ 2” and weighs approximately 143 lbs. She also has two tattoos – a unicorn on her left upper back and the name “Hannah” with butterflies on her right wrist. Pictures of each are attached.

If anyone has information about the possible identification of this woman, please contact the Jackson County Medical Examiner’s Office at (816) 881-6600 and ask to speak with an on-duty investigator.

 


02.19.21 Jackson County Executive statement on health order
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

February 19, 2021

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Jackson County Executive Frank White, Jr. has issued the following statement today regarding Jackson County’s COVID-19 health order:

“At this time, I am in the process of evaluating the County’s current COVID-19 health order with our health department director and emergency management coordinator. Throughout this pandemic, the County has worked hard to keep its guidelines consistent with neighboring jurisdictions to lessen confusion and ensure compliance among businesses and residents. While we maintain that commitment, our decisions will continue to be guided by science and recommendations of public health experts. 

 An announcement on changes, if any, to the County’s health order is not expected until late next week. If the guidelines are relaxed, it is important for everyone to remember that COVID-19 remains a serious threat to our community’s health and safety. Masks, social distancing and frequent hand washing are still necessary prevention practices until we can all get vaccinated. 

I am extremely grateful for the sacrifice, compassion and resilience our community has shown for nearly a year. If we continue to do our part, we will emerge from this pandemic safer and stronger than ever.”

 

02.25.21 Counties join in removing business closing time restrictions
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                                                                                                                     

February 25, 2021

Wyandotte County, KS Joins Johnson County, KS and Jackson County, MO in Removing Closing Time Restrictions on Bars, Restaurants, and Taverns

Jurisdictions Focus on Bringing Consistency for Area Businesses While Still Guarding Public Health

Leaders with the Unified Government of Wyandotte County/Kansas City, Kansas, Johnson County, Kansas, and Jackson County, Missouri announced changes today regarding operating hours for bars, restaurants, and taverns in those counties. David Alvey, Mayor and CEO of the Unified Government of Wyandotte County and Kansas City, Kansas, Johnson County Board of County Commissioners Chairman Ed Eilert, and Jackson County Executive Frank White, Jr. issued a joint statement:

“We continue to work together as a region to follow the data and take appropriate steps to protect public health. Harmonizing our COVID rules regarding bar and restaurant closing times makes life simpler for businesses and residents. We are encouraged by the progress our region is making in fighting the virus, but we also know the fight is not over, and people need to continue to wear masks, social distance, and get vaccinated.” 

Both the Unified Government Public Health Department (UGPHD) and the Jackson County Health Department issued new Health Orders reflecting this change. Johnson County amended an existing Health Order (see details, below). 

“Business owners and operators in our region have gone to great lengths to comply with and implement health protocols to keep their staff, customers, and the community safe since the start of the pandemic,” said David Alvey, Mayor and CEO of the Unified Government of Wyandotte County and Kansas City, Kansas. “Our primary goal has been and remains containing the spread of COVID-19, while simultaneously working to help residents, businesses, and the community manage and retain a sense of normalcy during these challenging times. As such, I’m pleased that the latest public health data is allowing for further relaxation of existing Health Orders for local operators, and that this is being done jointly between Wyandotte, Jackson, and Johnson Counties in an effort to provide consistency and uniformity for both businesses and patrons. While service hours are being expanded, it remains the responsibility of everyone to do so in a safe and controlled manner, working to ensure employees and customers continue to mask up, maintain social distancing, disinfect, and work to protect the public health.”

“Successful partnerships require humility, respect for one another, and sacrificing one’s individual interests for the whole. Not all leaders, especially elected ones, are able to do that. However, I am grateful that from the very early days of this pandemic, we have stood united in our commitment to science and united in our belief that we can be most effective in protecting our communities when we work together,” said Jackson County Executive Frank White, Jr. “While we have relaxed some restrictions in our order, we cannot let our guard down. The UK variant has been found in wastewater systems in eastern Jackson County, Kansas City, and in wastewater originating in Johnson County. Studies show this variant spreads more easily and quickly than others, which could lead to a surge in more COVID cases. Moving forward, it is imperative that mask wearing, social distancing, and frequent hand washing are practiced vigorously until we can all get vaccinated.”

“Our local public health order as well as the cooperation of our residents and business community have helped mitigate the spread of COVID-19 in our community,” said Johnson County Board of County Commissioners Chairman Ed Eilert. “We encourage everyone to continue to wear masks, physically distance and avoid crowds, but feel that removing this time restriction on our restaurants and bars will help that sector of our business community serve its clientele. We encourage them to do so in the safe manner they have been by following gathering, capacity, and physical distancing protocols.”

Details about the New Wyandotte County Local Health Order (LHO 2/25/21)

The new order goes into effect at 12:01 a.m. on Friday, February 26. Under a previous health order, restaurants, bars, and taverns were required to close by 12:30 a.m. Under the new order:

  • The closing time restriction has been lifted. Restaurants, bars, and taverns may remain open until their pre-pandemic closing time.
  • Once closed for the evening, these businesses must remain closed until at least 6 a.m. each day. Restaurants can operate between their pre-pandemic closing time and 6 a.m. for drive through or delivery services only.  

Additional protocols remain the same as outlined in previous orders, including:  

  • Restaurants, bars, and taverns must still restrict customer capacity to no more than 50 percent of building capacity.
  • During business hours, patrons must remain seated to the greatest extent possible, and all patrons must be masked except when actively eating or drinking. 
  • Parties of guests (whether indoors or outdoors) are limited to no more than eight people. 
  • Guest parties must be socially distanced at least six feet apart. 

 

Details About Revisions to Johnson County, KS Local Health Order #002-20

On Thursday, Feb. 25, the Johnson County Board of Public Health approved the removal of curfews and closing times for restaurants, bars, night clubs, and other businesses licensed to sell alcohol for on-premises consumption that are currently included in Section II, paragraphs (4) and (5) of Johnson County Board of Public Health Order No. 002-20. This was effective immediately. No other changes were made to the order, which lasts through March 31, 2021.

Details About the New Jackson County, MO Local Health Order

The new order takes effect at 12:01 a.m. Friday, February 26 and does not apply in the cities of Kansas City, Missouri, or Independence, Missouri. Under the new order:

  • Restaurants, bars, and taverns can resume normal operating hours to serve food and alcohol. Indoor and outdoor seating at tables remains limited to no more than 10 people.
  • Gatherings under 50 people are no longer required to submit a Gathering Protocol.
  • Any gathering exceeding 50 people must submit a Gathering Protocol at least seven (7) business days in advance of the event. The Gathering Protocol must be approved by Jackson County and easily accessible to all attendees.

Gatherings include, but are not limited to, non-essential business activities such as weddings, funerals, lectures, meetings, parades, fairs, festivals, sporting events, and performances. Jackson County’s mask mandate and 50 percent capacity limit for all businesses that are frequented by the public remain in effect.

Jackson County residents and businesses can learn more by visiting the health department online at www.jacohd.org/coronavirus, by phone at (816) 404-6415, or via email at  COVID19@tmcmed.org.

Wyandotte County residents can learn more online at wycokck.org/COVID-19, or by calling 3-1-1. 

Johnson County residents can learn more online at jocogov.org. 

Media Contacts:

Janell Friesen, Unified Government Public Health Department Public Information Officer, ‪(913) 428-9622, 

Jfriesen@wycokck.org

Jody Hanson, Johnson County Director of Public Affairs and Communication, (913) 715-0730, jody.hanson@jocogov.org

Marshanna Smith, Jackson County, Missouri Public Information Officer, (816) 878-1930, msmith@jacksongov.org

Kayla Parker, Communications Coordinator, Jackson County Health Department (816) 404-8424, kayla.parker@tmcmed.org

 

03.15.21 Elected officials to commemorate year of fighting COVID-19
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What: The metro’s CORE 4 jurisdictions will commemorate one year of fighting COVID-19. They will recognize the impact of the pandemic on our community, our efforts to slow the spread and everyone’s resiliency throughout the past year.

This event will also include the unveiling of a temporary installation that allows the public to contribute a memory, thought or honor connected to the pandemic.

Who: The top elected officials of the CORE 4 jurisdictions will make remarks. Health officials and city/county managers will be recognized for their efforts the past year.

Speakers

  • George Guastello, Union Station (Emcee)
  • Jackson County Executive, Frank White, Jr.
  • Ed Eilert, Chairman, Johnson County Board of County Commissioners 
  • Mayor David Alvey, Unified Government
  • Mayor Quinton Lucas, Kansas City, MO

When:  1 p.m. on Tuesday, March 16

Where: Union Station Grand Plaza (30 W. Pershing Rd., Ste. 400, Kansas City, MO 64108)

Why: March 16 marks one year since the CORE 4 jurisdictions implemented measures to close restaurants, bars, and movie theatres for 15 days, and banned public gatherings (with some exceptions) of more than 10 people.  Less than a week later, the CORE 4 leaders held a joint news conference at Union Station to discuss their issuances of 30-day stay-at-home orders except for essential services.

For more information please contact:

  • Marshanna Smith, Jackson County, Missouri Public Information Officer, 816 878-1930, msmith@jacksongov.org
  • Jody Hanson, Johnson County Director of Public Affairs and Communication, 913-715-0730, jody.hanson@jocogov.org
  • Chris Hernandez, Kansas City, Missouri Communications Director, 816-787-1507, Chris.Hernandez@kcmo.org
  • Ashley Hand, Unified Government of Wyandotte County/Kansas City, Kansas Director of Strategic Communications, 913-573-5544, azhand@wycokck.org

 

03.18.21 Executive proposes $11.5 million rental assistance program
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

March 18, 2021 

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Jackson County Executive Frank White, Jr. is announcing today a proposal that would provide millions of dollars to assist eligible households in Jackson County outside of Kansas City that are unable to pay current and past due rent and utility bills because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Specifically, Ordinance 5493 would authorize the use of $11,550,205 in grant monies the County received from the federal government to launch an Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP). The program would provide financial assistance and housing stability services to Eastern Jackson County families struggling financially. Households facing imminent eviction would receive priority assistance.

The Community Services League and United Way of Greater Kansas City have formed a collaborative partnership to implement and administer the County’s program.

“Many families are in dire need of help and this is our opportunity to provide a lifeline to them during these challenging times,” said Jackson County Executive Frank White, Jr. “I am grateful for our local partners who share our commitment of housing stability and will assist us in getting these critical dollars to those in need as quickly as possible.”

Eligible households include renters who demonstrate a risk of experiencing housing instability, have seen their income reduced by the COVID-19 pandemic, and earn a household income at or below 80% of the county median income. Once approved, eligible individuals may receive up to 12 months of assistance. Rental and utility assistance payments are made directly to the landlord or utility provider on behalf of the tenant.

Funding applications will be available after the program is approved by the County Legislature. More information about the program including eligibility requirements, an application checklist and to sign-up to be notified when the application portal is open, can be found at www.jacksoncountyerap.org. Detailed program information is also readily available for Spanish-speaking families at www.jacksoncountyerap.org/espanol.

The $11.5 million grant is part of the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2021, which established a $25 billion Federal Emergency Rental Assistance Program for state, county and municipal governments. The amount of funding received is based on the County’s population, excluding the City of Kansas City, MO. 

KCMO received its own grant funding of $14.8 million directly from the federal government and is administering its own rental assistance program for households within city limits.

 

03.22.21 County Legislature Passes Rental Assistance Legislation
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

MARCH 22, 2021

Kansas City, MO - The Jackson County Legislature today, passed Ordinance 5493 to help families throughout Jackson County who were evicted from their homes as of February 3, 2021 as adjudicated in cases by the 16th Circuit Court. These households were unable to pay current and past due rent and utility bills as part of the ongoing crisis due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The amount of $387,946.84 will immediately assist 152 people, with portions to help 87 people with Court costs and help 65 families to keep possession of their homes. These families may also qualify to get further assistance as there will be additional funds made available from the State of Missouri for rental assistance. These funds are part of the $11.5 million grant issued to Jackson County as part of the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2021, which established a $25 billion Federal Emergency Rental Assistance Program for state, county and municipal governments. 

The Jackson County Legislature feels a duty to be responsive to the needs of all citizens of Jackson County and will continue to do so. During these times when there continues to be incredible amounts of suffering by families, friends, neighbors, schools and businesses, by no fault of their own, their is light at the end of the tunnel. That light comes in the form of the COVID-19 numbers coming down along with the number of hospitalizations and deaths associated with this pandemic. We also have at least 136 million additional federal dollars to help get our lives, schools and economy heading in the right direction that has just come into Jackson County with this last aid package.

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