The community of Blair County implores our leaders (PA State Reps, PA State Senator, Mayors, Councils, Commissioners, Supervisors, Managers) to open up our county. Governor Wolf has made it clear he is not concerned about our community with his latest determination to keep our county in the red and under strict stay-at-home orders. Our infection rate is low in comparison to other counties where restrictions are being lifted.

Local businesses are suffering severe economical distress due to the continued extension of the restrictions by the PA governor. Many business owners have not benefited from the federal funding packages and have not been able to receive their unemployment benefits. Business owners are in danger of loosing their life's work and financial investments. These business owners have families that will be adversely effected by the loss of income. They stand to loose not only their business, but their homes, and the ability to support their families.

In addition, if businesses continue to close permanently, as some have already, our community risks the loss of tax revenue to support our local fire, police, and public services.  Our banks will be saddled with debt that cannot be repaid.  Our local services will feel the strain of trying to support community members out of work and in need of shelter and food.  Our community will continue to crumble and could push us into bankruptcy. This will leave us at the mercy of the State.

This is no longer about saving a business, but about saving our community.

Finally, and most importantly, to those who are at the highest risk during the COVID-19 pandemic I wish you to know that the business community hears your concerns but more importantly we respect them. We, as a business community, will continue to value you as a customer and will accommodate you to the best of our abilities utilizing safe practices recommended by CDC and beyond. If you are a business owner and do not feel safe operating your business during this time, we will continue to support you in any manner we can. If you offer curb-side service, online ordering, or other methods to support your business we will remain your customer as well.

It is time to stand as one community and send Governor Wolf a message. We, as a community, have been respectful and patient with this difficult process. We did so out of respect and concern of each other.  Unfortunately, this has not been rewarded by our governor and the time has come for our local leaders to make the decision to defy his orders.