Mineral County variance approved Fourth of July events planned

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MINERAL COUNTY- Mineral County announced that they had been granted the second variance request submitted to the state that allows for lesser restrictions in the county which in turn allowed the town to move forward with some Fourth of July celebrations.


The variance came in the wake of the state’s new orders which also lessened restrictions for bars, restaurants and public gathering numbers.


The Fourth of July celebration, and the approval of the second variance, came just in time for the small community of Creede and will serve as means to an end for many who reside or visit there. According to statements released by the county, the variance now allows bars to open to the public with strict COVID-19 protection protocols in place to help to continue to lessen the spread of the virus. “For clarification concerning your request for a variance of bars, only bars that seat patrons at tables, only seat patrons at the bar if serving food, and eliminate or prohibit the use of gathering spaces such as lobbies or waiting areas are authorized to operate. Bars shall follow the restaurant operating requirements.”


The variance also allows indoor gatherings, “In order to achieve 6 feet distancing the occupancy limit is 50 percent of the posted occupancy code limit ensuring a minimum 28 square feet per person not to exceed more than 175 people are gathered in a confined indoor space at any given time, and not to exceed 250 attendees in an outdoor space.”


More specific details pertaining to the additional restrictions put in place by the variance, please direct questions to the Silver Thread Public Health District at 719-658-2416 or Mineral County at 719-658-2360.


As for the Fourth of July celebrations, through the combined efforts of the City of Creede and recommendations from Mineral County, both entities agreed to host the annual Fourth of July stating only that the annual parade and rodeo would not be taking place. The Creede Days of 92 Mining competitions, shopping district, vendors, restaurants and fireworks (pending the approval from the fire marshal) will all be open and taking place as normal.


Special social distancing precautions have been put in place to ensure as much public safety as possible. Officials urge anyone who is sick, has or has had symptoms to please stay home and encourages those who participate to please wear a mask. Additional information can be found on Facebook at Creede Happenings or on the Creede and Mineral County Chamber of Commerce website at www.creede.com


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