COVID-19

City News

Dec 10th, 2021

Omicron variant identified in Ada County resident.

Central District Health (Idaho) (CDH) — Central District Health (CDH) has confirmed the state of Idaho’s first COVID-19 case with the Omicron variant. The variant was confirmed in a clinical lab sample from an Ada County resident who recently reported out of state travel. The resident is over the age of 50 and experienced very mild symptoms, likely due to being fully vaccinated.

Nov 17th, 2021

Availability of monoclonal antibody treatment expands in the Treasure Valley. Vaccines continue to be best defense against COVID-19.

Central District Health (Idaho) (CDH) — As COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations continue to decline across Idaho, Central District Health (CDH) recommends the COVID-19 vaccine as the best defense against contracting, spreading, and becoming seriously ill from the virus. Anyone aged 5 years or older is now eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine, with full protection reached two weeks after the final dose in a vaccine series is administered.

Nov 3rd, 2021

Central District Health hosting live information session to address questions, concerns about pediatric Pfizer vaccine.

Central District Health (CDH) — On Friday, October 29, 2021, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) authorized the use of the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine for children ages 5 through 11 years. On Tuesday, November 2, 2021, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommended the use of the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine for children in that age group. The CDC recommends all people 5 years and older get vaccinated against COVID-19, with booster shots recommended for certain eligible groups as well.

Sep 29th, 2021

Central District Health urges community members to use COVID-19 tools to help ease the burden on health systems & public health

Central District Health (CDH) — The combination of increasing COVID-19 positive cases, limited staffing, and resource constraints have created a significant backlog in COVID-19 case investigations. Central District Health (CDH) is currently processing up to 1,000 labs per day, with about 6,300 labs, from up to 10 days ago, waiting to be processed in the queue - a significant increase from the number of labs seen in the last surge. New labs received via email and fax, waiting to be processed, are not all new cases due to receiving duplicates and negative results..

Aug 24th, 2021

Central District Board of Health to hold regular business meeting on Friday, August 20; discussion to include Board involvement with CDH’s COVID-19 related guidance to communities

Ada County, Idaho — The Central District Board of Health will meet for its next regularly scheduled business meeting on Friday, August 20, starting at 8:30 am. The meeting will be held in person at Central District Health’s (CDH) Armstrong facility, 707 N. Armstrong Place, Boise, ID 83704. The meeting will be streamed live on YouTube. Media and members of the public are encouraged to watch the meeting virtually due to limited seating in the on-site viewing rooms.

Aug 3rd, 2021

Central District Health encourages added layers of protection amid increase in COVID-19 Delta variant cases; adopts CDC’s community transmission levels for upcoming school year

CENTRAL DISTRICT HEALTH (Idaho) – COVID-19 case counts in CDH’s jurisdiction of Ada, Boise, Elmore, and Valley Counties continue to rise, mirroring both the state and national trend of the Delta variants’ impact on people, particularly those who have yet to be vaccinated for COVID-19. In late May and throughout much of June, CDH’s jurisdiction saw some of the lowest levels of COVID-19 since last year. However, since the week of June 27, 2021, case counts, and percent positivity have been steadily increasing each week

July 29, 2021

Central District Health encourages added layers of protection amid increase in COVID-19 Delta variant cases; adopts CDC’s community transmission levels for upcoming school year

Central District Health (CDH) - COVID-19 case counts in CDH’s jurisdiction of Ada, Boise, Elmore, and Valley Counties continue to rise, mirroring both the state and national trend of the Delta variants’ impact on people, particularly those who have yet to be vaccinated for COVID-19. In late May and throughout much of June, CDH’s jurisdiction saw some of the lowest levels of COVID-19 since last year. However, since the week of June 27, 2021, case counts, and percent positivity have been steadily increasing each week.

July 27, 2021

Central District Health supports updated CDC guidance for mask wearing

Central District Health (CDH) - supports the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) updated guidance shared today (July 27, 2021) regarding wearing a mask when in an indoor public space where there are substantial or high levels of community transmission, regardless of vaccination status.

May 13, 2021

Central District Health lifts public health advisory for Ada, Boise, Elmore, & Valley Counties

CENTRAL DISTRICT HEALTH — Today, Central District Health (CDH) lifted the public health advisory in place for Ada, Boise, Elmore, and Valley Counties, based on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) Interim Public Health Recommendations for Fully Vaccinated People and the recent move to Stage 4 Stay Healthy Guidelines on Tuesday, May 11, 2021, by the State of Idaho.

Residents in CDH’s jurisdiction are encouraged to continue following local, state, and federal guidelines, along with adhering to business protocols and policies. Unvaccinated individuals should continue to wear a mask in public spaces and maintain six feet of physical distance when around others who aren’t members of your household.

May 13, 2021

First India variant identified in Ada County resident who had COVID-19 in April

Ada County, Idaho ― The B.1.617.2 strain has been confirmed in a clinical lab sample from an Ada County resident. This strain is a variant of interest first identified in India, and part of the group of variants known as the India variant. The man, who is under the age of 30, was infected in April and was not hospitalized. He reported having recently traveled internationally. At this time, the India variants have not been detected in wastewater from Boise, Eagle, and Garden City, in the samples sent and tested at the University of Missouri.

May 13, 2021

Central District Health supports federal and state recommendation of Pfizer vaccine for Emergency Use Authorization for those aged twelve to fifteen

CENTRAL DISTRICT HEALTH — The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP), and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), approved and recommended administering the Pfizer vaccine for emergency use authorization (EUA) to those 12 and older. Central District Health (CDH) supports the federal and state recommendation and encourages all providers in CDH’s jurisdiction to start administering Pfizer vaccine immediately to those 12 and up, who chose to get vaccinated.

May 12, 2021

On May 11, 2021 Governor Brad Little moved Idaho to Stage 4 of the State’s Stay Healthy Guidelines.

Governor Brad Little moved Idaho to Stage 4 of the State’s Stay Healthy Guidelines, which are based on evidence of a decrease in the incident rate per 100,000 of cases of COVID-19 within the State of Idaho; as well as the advice and input of state epidemiologists, public health experts, and guidelines provided by CDC. You can find more information at the State of Idaho’s COVID-19 Resource page here: https://coronavirus.idaho.gov/governors-actions/

April 29, 2021

Public Health Advisory for Central District Health’s Jurisdiction: Ada, Boise, Elmore, and Valley Counties

This advisory includes recommendations for the communities served by Central District Health (CDH) with actions to take to help reduce the spread of SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19. It is not a public health order and does not replace or supersede orders in place or enacted by a city, county, state, or federal government. This advisory is issued by the District Director of CDH, Russell Duke; not by the CDH Board of Health. It is a replacement for the COVID-19 advisory issued on February 19, 2021, and is subject to change based on changing circumstances.

April 29, 2021

Central District Health updates public health advisory for Ada, Boise, Elmore, and Valley Counties; reinforces need for ongoing health and safety measures

Brazil variant identified in Elmore County resident who had COVID-19 in March

CENTRAL DISTRICT HEALTH — When Central District Health (CDH) updated its four-county Public Health Advisory on February 19, 2021, new criteria were set for the advisory’s duration. The two pieces of criteria focused on protecting the most vulnerable community members (those 65 years and older) by allowing them time to receive protection from the COVID-19 vaccine, and meeting a two-week average daily case rate of less than 30 cases per 100,000 population.

April 15, 2021

Central District Health supports state recommendation to temporarily pause administration of the Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine

CENTRAL DISTRICT HEALTH — In response to today’s recommendation from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare (IDHW) to pause the use of the Johnson & Johnson (Janssen) COVID-19 vaccine, Central District Health met with vaccine providers to share information and discuss potential impacts to upcoming appointments scheduled to receive the Johnson & Johnson vaccine.

March 30, 2021

Central District Health opens vaccine to anyone 16 and older in Ada, Boise, Elmore, and Valley Counties, effective immediately

CENTRAL DISTRICT HEALTH — Central District Health (CDH) invites anyone who is 16-years and older and wants to receive protection through the COVID-19 vaccine, to seek an appointment if they are a resident of Ada, Boise, Elmore, or Valley Counties; no medical condition is required. The move, which is effective immediately, comes just one day after the COVID-19 vaccine was opened statewide to those 16 years and older with a medical condition, and nearly a week ahead of Governor Little’s timeline to open vaccine to everyone 16 and older by April 5, 2021.

March 24, 2021

Anyone 45 years and older and those 16 and older living in congregate settings now eligible for COVID-19 vaccine in Ada, Boise, Elmore, and Valley Counties

CENTRAL DISTRICT HEALTH — Effective immediately, any residents who are 45-years and older, and anyone who is 16-years and older and lives in a congregate setting are eligible to receive the COVID-19 vaccine in the four counties served by Central District Health, which include Ada, Boise, Elmore, and Valley.

March 24, 2021

All Idahoans over age 16 can access COVID-19 vaccine starting April 5

BOISE, IDAHO - Governor Brad Little announced his decision today to open up COVID-19 vaccine appointments to all Idahoans over age 16 starting April 5.

Starting April 5, there will be no prioritization of any group of people. All Idahoans over the age of 16, regardless of their age, medical condition, or occupation, will be able to receive the COVID-19 vaccine.

March 19, 2021

COVID-19 vaccine subgroup to open Monday, March 22 to people 55 and older; no medical condition required

CENTRAL DISTRICT HEALTH — Starting Monday, March 22, 2021, residents among the general population who are 55 years and older will be eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine. The movement to Idaho’s Subgroup 3.2 happens one week after those 55 years and older with a medical condition (Subgroup 3.1) have had priority to receive vaccine. Group 3 focuses on specific age groups with a one-week priority given to persons in a specified age group with a qualifying medical condition as defined by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Disabilities are also included as a medical condition. The following week opens vaccine eligibility to individuals in the specified age group, with no qualifying medical condition required (general population). Per Idaho Group 3:

March 12, 2021

People 55 and older with medical conditions to become eligible for COVID-19 vaccine on Monday, March 15

CENTRAL DISTRICT HEALTH — Starting Monday, March 15, 2021, residents 55 years and older with a qualifying medical condition (Subgroup 3.1) will be eligible to get their COVID-19 vaccine. The move to further expand vaccine eligibility comes after an announcement this week by the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare (IDHW), which outlined plans and associated timelines for Group 3. Group 3 focuses on specific age groups, giving a one-week-long priority to persons in a specified age group with a qualifying medical condition.

March 5, 2021

Central District Health opens vaccine eligibility to those in Subgroup 2.3, urge 65+ to continue seeking COVID-19 vaccine

On Saturday, March 6, 2021, Subgroup 2.3 will become eligible for vaccine in Central District Health’s (CDH) four-county jurisdiction – Ada, Boise, Elmore and Valley County. The subgroup includes those who work in close and frequent contact with other employees or the public, the full list is included below. Like all vaccine prioritization groups and subgroups, recommendations for subgroup 2.3 were made by the Idaho COVID-19 Vaccine Advisory Committee (CVAC), and ultimately determined by Idaho Governor Brad Little. In CDH’s region of Ada, Boise, Elmore, and Valley counties, it includes an estimated 43,000 people becoming eligible to receive a COVID-19 vaccine.

March 4, 2021

Meridian will receive additional $254,197 of CARES Act funding - please provide input

With the additional funding, Meridian is amending the PY19 Action Plan to include these funds. The PY19 Action Plan is available for public comment from February 26, 2021 to March 23, 2021. An overview of the amendment is available to make it easier to identify the changes that were made.

Please submit comments to Crystal Campbell at ccampbell@meridiancity.org. There will be a public hearing on March 23, 2021 during the City Council meeting that begins at 6 pm at Meridiancity.org/live. If you have questions, please contact Crystal at ccampbell@meridiancity.org or (208)489-0575.

Idaho secures millions in funding for vaccination effort

Governor Little announces the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has awarded $39 million to Idaho to support COVID-19 vaccination efforts throughout the state.

The $39 million will be distributed to the state at 100-percent federal cost share.

March 1, 2021

Businesses and industries in vaccine priority subgroup 2.3 encouraged to begin planning for workforce COVID-19 vaccine

Central District Health, Idaho ― An estimated 46 percent of people 65 years and older who are currently eligible for COVID-19 vaccine within Central District Health’s (CDH) four-county jurisdiction have received their first dose since February 1, 2021. While an exact date to move to the next subgroup eligible for vaccine has not been established in Idaho, CDH is encouraging businesses and industries who are eligible next, to begin planning. According to the state’s vaccine priority plan, subgroup 2.3 could become eligible in early April; however, this estimate is subject to change.

February 19, 2021

Central District Board of Health lifts public health order for Ada County, mask order for Valley County
Revised Public Health Advisory emphasizes need for continued COVID-19 health and safety measures in Ada, Boise, Elmore, and Valley Counties

Ada County, ID ― At their regular business meeting today, February 19, 2021, the Central District Board of Health voted unanimously to lift the public health order for Ada County and the mask order in Valley County – both have been in place since last summer. Today’s decision to lift the two orders was prompted by a steady decline in case counts in recent weeks and reduced impacts on hospitals across Central District Health’s (CDH) jurisdiction of Ada, Boise, Elmore, and Valley Counties, when compared to previous months.

February 17, 2021

Central District Board of Health to discuss potential changes to Ada and Valley public health orders on Friday, February 19

Ada County, Idaho — The Central District Board of Health will meet for its next regularly scheduled business meeting on Friday, February 19, starting at 8:30 am. The meeting will be held virtually and will be streamed live on YouTube for public viewing.

January 29, 2021

New online tool helps Idahoans learn when, where to receive COVID-19 vaccine

Boise, Idaho – Governor Brad Little announced today the State of Idaho launched a new COVID-19 vaccination information web page to help Idahoans more easily find information on when and where to get vaccinated and what to expect when they get to their appointment.

The new web page is https://healthandwelfare.idaho.gov/covid-19-vaccination.

January 28, 2021

COVID-19 vaccine appointments begin opening for residents 65 years and older in Central District Health, Southwest District Health jurisdictions

Vaccine providers may use prioritization efforts to serve those more vulnerable, first

January 26, 2021

Central District Health to offer COVID-19 vaccine information session this Wednesday

Those qualified to receive COVID-19 vaccine in Group 1 and Subgroup 2.1 encouraged to seek vaccine as soon as possible. Avoid double booking.

January 20, 2021

High school athletic plan to include more spectators at sporting events

Boise, Idaho – Following a weeks-long decrease in statewide COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations, Governor Brad Little announced today that he is instructing the State Board of Education to revise its high school athletic plan to allow more spectators at sporting events.

January 19, 2021

Gov. Little accelerates COVID-19 vaccine administration across Idaho

Boise, Idaho – Governor Brad Little announced today he will seek to increase the number of available Idaho National Guard personnel from 250 to 400 guardsmen later this week to aid in Idaho’s pandemic response. The additional guardsmen will assist in vaccine distribution.

January 12, 2021

Central District Health held a media availability event to discuss the phases, plans, and distribution efforts of the COVID-19 vaccine and answer questions from local media outlets.

January 6, 2021

Central District Board of Health returns to near-monthly meeting schedule for 2021

Meetings to be held virtually with online streaming and in-person viewing room availab

December 11, 2020

Central District Health Board to revisit districtwide public health order on Tuesday, December 15; meeting start time moved to 3:30 pm

The Central District Board of Health will meet again on Tuesday, December 15 at 3:30 pm. As part of its agenda, the Board will discuss the draft districtwide public health order which has been under consideration for multiple weeks. The Board was set to discuss the draft order at its meeting on December 8, but safety concerns over hundreds of protestors at CDH headquarters and at the homes of two Board of Health members forced the Board to abruptly cancel its meeting just 15 minutes into the agenda.

The draft public health order remains as written and shared with the public on Friday, December 4, 2020. Review the draft public health order at https://cdh.idaho.gov/about-boardofhealth-meetings.php

December 2, 2020

Central District Board of Health to consider Public Health Order at special meeting Friday, December 4 at 5:15 pm
Districtwide draft order to be posted on CDH website by Wednesday, December 2

Central District Health, Idaho ― At their meeting on Tuesday, December 1, the Central District Board of Health voted to hold a special meeting on Friday, December 4, 2020, at 5:15 pm to discuss elevating the current Public Health Advisory for Ada, Boise, Elmore, and Valley Counties to a Public Health Order. Rising case counts, increasing demands on local hospitals, and an anticipated increase in cases in the coming weeks resulting from Thanksgiving holiday gatherings, are behind the Board’s decision to meet on Friday to discuss the next steps.

The current advisory, which the Board approved on November 17, 2020, includes strong recommendations for both individuals and business operations in all four of CDH’s counties, to help slow the spread of COVID-19 and ease the strain on area hospitals.

Since June 24, 2020, a public health order has been in place for Ada County; on August 11, 2020, a mask order was put in place for Valley County. Both orders were enacted by the CDH Board of Health. A public health advisory is not enforceable, whereas a public health order is enforceable by law. A new, jurisdiction-wide public health order would replace the Ada and Valley orders approved by the Board earlier this year.

November 14, 2020

City of Meridian Will Conduct In-Person Business by Appointment as COVID-19 Cases Continue to Rise

Beginning Monday, November 16, 2020, all City of Meridian administrative offices will be closed to the general public, in an effort to slow the spread of COVID-19. Customers are asked to schedule appointments to conduct city business, or utilize one of the virtual options available for most transactions. This decision comes after Governor Little’s decision to roll Idaho back to modified Stage 2 of the Idaho Rebounds Plan.

November 13, 2020

Governor Little Rolls Idaho Back to Modified Phase 2

Governor Brad Little signed an executive order today mobilizing the Idaho National Guard to help the pandemic response in new ways, and he signed a new statewide public health order rolling Idaho back into a modified Stage 2 of the Idaho Rebounds plan.

Under the new statewide Stage 2 public health order:

• Gatherings of more than 10 people are prohibited. This does not pertain to religious or political expression. Physical distancing is required for all gatherings.
• At-risk Idahoans should self-isolate.
• All Idahoans are encouraged to telework whenever possible and feasible with business operations.
• Masks continue to be required at long-term care facilities.
• Bars, nightclubs, and restaurants continue to operate with seating only.

November 12, 2020

Central District Health Urges Everyone to Celebrate the Upcoming Holidays Safely

As COVID-19 case counts continue on a steady climb throughout Central District Health’s (CDH) four-county region, and with fall and winter holidays quickly approaching, CDH is urging people to choose lower-risk ways of honoring traditions and celebrating with family and friends in the coming months.

CDH has released guidance for the safer celebration of fall and winter holidays. The guidance outlines high, moderate, and lower risk activities, and asks the public to opt for the safest of options, which include those with household members only and follow local and state health orders in place.

Governor Little will hold COVID-19 Press Conference November 13 @ 1:00 pm-2:00 pm

Governor Brad Little will hold a virtual press conference updating Idahoans on COVID-19 in the state Friday, November 13, at 1 p.m. MT. The conference will be streamed to the public online at https://www.idahoptv.org/shows/idahoinsession/governor/ and broadcast live on Idaho Public Television statewide on the Idaho channel (.1).

As Elementary Students Return to Classroom Learning, Mayor Simison Urges Residents to Take Personal Responsibility to "Keep Meridian Healthy and Open for Business

November 6, 2020

Case Surges Overwhelm Public Health Efforts Across Idaho

South Central Public Health District, Central District Health, Southwest District Health, and the Panhandle Health District warn case surges in the last month have created backlogs and delays for their disease investigation teams, making it impossible to contact all new reported cases or those individual’s close-contacts. Disease investigation remains a top priority for public health. However, as cases have flooded into the state, tripling daily averages in some districts, public health is asking for the community’s help.

November 2, 2020

Do Masks Work

St. Luke's helps us to understand the science behind masks and the importance of wearing them to slow the spread of COVID-19.

November 1, 2020

The City of Meridian will follow Governor Little’s lead and roll back a phase for internal operations.

Due to the recent increase in COVID-19 cases throughout the Treasure Valley, and reports from local hospitals showing increased concern for capacities, slight changes will be made to hours of operations for City facilities.City facilities will be open to the public from 9am – 4pm, Monday through Friday. The adjusted hours of operation will take effect Monday, November 2nd and remain in effect until further notice.

City employees will use the hour at the beginning and end of their work day when facilities are closed to the public to focus on cleaning workspaces and equipment in an effort to help prevent the spread of COVID-19.

October 26, 2020

Governor Little Rolls Idaho Back to Stage 3 with Modifications – Meridian will Remain Under Central District Health’s Order Except Where Provisions of Governor Little’s Order are More Restrictive

Governor Little held a press conference on October 16, 2020 where he rolled Idaho back one phase due to an increase in COVID-19 across the state. See the Governor’s newest Order here (link to Emily’s document). Because both Orders remain in effect, Meridian will remain under the Central District Health’s Order except where provisions of the Governor Little’s Order are more restrictive. Below is a recording of the Governor’s press conference.

October 20, 2020

Central District Health Provides Guidance on Youth Sports

September 28, 2020

Central District Health releases safety tips for Halloween

September 9, 2020

Press Conference: Education Funding and Supporting Parents - September 11 @ 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm

September 4, 2020

Central District Health Simplifies School Category Determinations for Weekly Reporting

Central District Health Board approves re-opening of Ada County bars pending anticipated school category change to yellow next week

August 31, 2020

Public viewing room for September 1 Board of Health meeting moved back to Central District Health facility

Public viewing room for September 1 Board of Health meeting moved back to Central District Health facility

August 26, 2020

West Ada School District Will Start Remotely - District to Reevaluate Status Weekly

August 24, 2020

West Ada School District's Board to Meet to Discuss School Re-Opening Plan on August 25th at 6:00pm.

August 20, 2020

Board of Health meeting to be held Friday, August 21; to include COVID-19 metrics review, Open Meeting Law training, and additional items

Ada County, ID – The Central District Health Board of Health will meet virtually for its regularly scheduled meeting on Friday, August 21 from 8:30 am to 12:30 pm. and the meeting will be streamed on the Central District Health YouTube channel. Due to the August 21 meeting, there will not be a meeting held today (Tuesday, August 18) or Tuesday, August 25. The Board will resume its weekly Tuesday meetings on September 1 at 4 pm.

The agenda for the August 21 meeting will include a review of COVID-19 metrics for Criteria for Determining Quarantine and Restriction Orders for Ada County, an Open Meeting Law training, and an Executive Session. The agenda also includes some additional public health topics and business.

August 17, 2020

A Message from Educators and School Administrators Throughout the State

August 12, 2020

Social Group Sizes Limited for Ada County

In a five-to-one vote, the Board of Health approved draft language for addition to the Ada County order that prohibits social gatherings greater than 10 people. While Ada County has seen some leveling off of case counts and impact on its health care systems in recent weeks, daily reports of 100 or more cases are still regularly occurring, and on at least two recent days, numbers have climbed by 200 cases. Additionally, case investigations have determined that gatherings such as birthday parties, weddings, backyard barbeques, and similar social gatherings have been, and continue to be, a common source of transmission in Ada County.

The added language defines social gatherings as “Private gatherings of people for the common purpose of relaxation or social interaction convening more than ten people in a single indoor room or outdoor space at the same time, where physical distancing of six feet is not maintained. Social gatherings do not include persons patronizing theaters, restaurants, retail establishments, or similar private businesses where social distancing is practiced, or attending places of worship for the purpose of exercising religious activities.”

The idea to limit gathering sizes came from a recent White House report for Idaho that put the state in the ‘red zone’ based several factors and data points, made specific recommendations to limit social gathering sizes to 10 or fewer people, among other strategies. The updated order goes into effect immediately.

August 7, 2020

Central District Health - Board of Health August 11 Meeting Agenda and Draft Order Language Available for Review (consideration to close gyms removed from draft order)

Board of Health August 11 meeting agenda and draft order language available for review; consideration to close gyms removed from draft order

At their regular weekly meeting held on Tuesday, August 4, Central District Health’s (CDH) Board of Health discussed the potential for additional modifications to slow the spread of COVID-19 in two of its four-county jurisdiction which includes Ada, Boise, Elmore, and Valley Counties.

Requests were made around further limiting group gathering sizes and closing gyms in Ada County, and initiating a separate county-wide mandatory face covering order for Valley County.

An Update on COVID-19 from Mayor Simison

August 5, 2020

August 4, 2020: Central District Health Board of Health requests draft Order language be written for consideration at August 11 meeting:

Requested draft language includes limiting group gatherings in Ada County to a size of less than 25 or less than 10 and closing gyms in Ada County. Draft language for these discussion points will be posted to the Board of Health web page and available for written comment to the Board: boh@cdh.idaho.gov. Please ensure comments are submitted by 4 pm on Monday, August 10 to allow time for Board review. Anticipated discussion at the August 11 meeting will also include a review of recent data points being used in public health decision making within CDH's jurisdiction of Ada, Boise, Elmore, and Valley Counties.

Meeting Video

Fall Reopening Plan Approved By West Ada School District Board of Trustees

At a special meeting of the West Ada School Board on August 4, 2020 the board made the decision to delay the start of the 2020-2021 school year to September 8 from the original start date of August 27. By delaying the start of the school year, it will allow us to open in a yellow scenario if COVID-19 numbers trend down prior to September 8. At the August 25 school board meeting, the board will make the decision whether we are going back to school in a yellow or red scenario.

Recap - The following actions were approved:

• The first day of school is set to September 8, 2020, for both traditional and modified calendars.
• Board approved the fall reopening plan. (to be posted August 5 by the end of the day)
• The board will make the decision whether we are going back to school in a yellow or red scenario, at the August 25 school board meeting.

August 3, 2020

Central District Health provides community spread categories for school districts in response to COVID-19

Today, Central District Health (CDH) began its official weekly assessment and reporting of categories of community spread for use by school districts in Ada, Boise, Elmore, and Valley Counties in their decision-making processes and operations for COVID-19. The categories are defined in the Idaho Back to School Framework, as approved by the State Board of Education in early July, and indicate what level of in-person learning and response is recommended.

July 28, 2020

The Board of Health approves specific language clarifying the mandatory wearing of face coverings/masks in educational settings within Ada County

Meridian First Responders ask Residents to Mask Up

Tuesday, July 14, 2020

Board of Health Adds Mandatory Face Covering Language to Ada County Public Health Order

Ada County – With COVID-19 counts increasing by at least 100 cases a day in Ada County, at its regular meeting today (July 14), the Central District Health Board of Health voted to add language to the existing public health order to require that face coverings be worn in public places. The addition of mandatory face coverings to the order took effect immediately and applies to Ada County only; no additional changes were made to the order.

Every person is required to wear a face covering that completely covers the person’s nose and mouth when the person is in a public place and others are present and physical distancing of 6 feet cannot be maintained. A public place is defined as any place open to all members of the public without specific invitation, including but not necessarily limited to, retail, business establishments, government offices, medical, educational, arts and recreational institutions, public transportation, including taxi cabs and ridesharing vehicles, outdoor public areas, including, but not limited to public parks, trails, streets, sidewalks, lines for entry, exit, or service, when a distance of at least six feet cannot be maintained from any non-household member.

Facial coverings are not required to be worn under the following circumstances:

• Children under the age of 2.
• Persons with medical conditions, mental health condition, or disability that prevent them from wearing a face covering. A person is not required to provide documentation demonstrating that the person cannot tolerate wearing a face covering.
• Persons who are deaf or hard of hearing, or communicating with a person who is deaf or hard of hearing, where the ability to see the mouth is essential for communication.
• Persons, including on-duty law enforcement officers, for whom wearing a face covering would create a risk to the person related to their work, as determined by local, state, or federal regulators or workplace safety guidelines.
• Persons who are obtaining a service involving the nose, face, or head for which temporary removal of the face covering is necessary to perform the service.
• Persons who are eating or drinking at a restaurant or other establishment that offers food or beverage service, so long as they engage in physical distancing.

Central District Health Holds Health Board Meeting - Pass Order to Mandate the Wearing of Face Coverings in Public in Ada County

Southwest Idaho Health Care Organizations Hold Joint News Conference

Monday, July 14, 2020

Ada County Emergency Management to hand out FREE Face Coverings in Drive-Through

Those in need of facial coverings can pick up free masks on July 14, 2020 at Expo Idaho from 5 PM to 7:30 PM.Enter at the livestock entrance next to Hawks Stadium on Glenwood St. Signs will be posted. A package of 5 masks will be given to each household. If you would like masks and need accommodation for a disability or transportation barrier, please call 208-577-4750.

Wednesday, July 8, 2020

Central District Health Board of Health makes modification to Ada County order; to consider addition of face covering language at July 14 meeting

Central District Health Board of Health will Meet Weekly on Tuesdays at 4PM as Needed for COVID-19 Discussions in Addition to Regularly Scheduled Meetings on August 21, October 16, and December 18.

Tuesday, July 7, 2020

Central District Health Board Holds COVID-19 Meeting

Thursday, July 2, 2020

Mayor Simison Urges Community to MASK UP

Monday, June 22, 2020

Ada County Rolled Back to Stage Three and Bars/Nightclubs Will Close

Friday, May 29, 2020

Governor Governor Brad Little moves Idaho into Phase Three:

Friday, May 15, 2020

Friday, May 15, 2020

Message from Mayor Simison

Friday, May 15, 2020

Governor Little Adapts Phased Re-Opening Plan:

Tuesday, May 5, 2020

Meridian City Hall Reopens

Thursday, April 30, 2020

Message from Mayor Simison

Meridian Elected Officials Statement on Governor Little Stay Health Order & City Hall Prepares for Re-Opening

In response to Governor Little’s Stay Healthy order, Meridian City officials released the following statement:

"We understand that Meridian businesses need to open their doors and get back to work. We appreciate Governor Little laying the framework for reopening, and we encourage businesses to adhere to the Governor’s order and implement safe business practices to help provide confidence to both their customers and community. When eligible to open, it needs to be done responsibly. We are confident that working with our business community we can navigate the Stay Healthy Order in a way that does not violate state and industry board licensing rules. More importantly, let’s keep Meridian Healthy and open for business moving forward." Meridian Mayor and City Council

Wednesday, April 29, 2020

Governor Little released protocols specific to Stage 1 for the opening of daycares, youth activities, and places of worship.

Thursday, April 23, 2020

Governor Little Releases 4 Step Plan to Re-Open Idaho

HEADLINE: Governor Little Releases 4 Step Plan to Re-Open Idaho Governor Brad Little, with the help of the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare and guidance issued by President Donald Trump and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, has established a data-driven approach to opening up Idaho’s economy. The approach reduces the risk of COVID-19 to Idaho’s most vulnerable population and preserves capacity in our healthcare system, while opening up businesses safely. From an economic standpoint, Idaho’s rebound from COVID-19 starts with employee and consumer confidence, which leads into business stability and growth and eventually promotion and attraction.

Press Conference Video

Idaho Rebounds Video

Tuesday, April 21, 2020

Flushing Notice for Businesses

The City of Meridian Water Division conducts routine and non-routine flushing continuously throughout the year. Flushing is performed in an effort to improve and maintain water quality in the water distribution section, specifically in areas with lower or no flow.

In light of the current situation and social isolation, many businesses and possibly private residents are using less or even no water. This lack of use can potentially lessen optimal water quality for these customers over extended periods of time. The City would like to remind customers to be sure to occasionally flush their water systems during these low use times and before resuming normal business/activities. Just a few minutes of flushing cold water taps such as outside faucets, sinks, or tubs will help clear lines of this older water. Also, remember to keep hot water heaters working properly and up to temperature; 120 -130 degrees is recommended.

This small effort will help ensure optimal quality water is maintained in these properties.

Wednesday, April 15, 2020

Governor Little charts path to prosperity, extends statewide stay-home order to April 30 with exceptions

Boise, Idaho – Governor Brad Little announced today that he is extending the statewide stay-home order to April 30, with exceptions for operations of formerly “non-essential” businesses, facilities, and services and new restrictions related to nonresident travel into the state.

Wednesday, April 15, 2020

COVID-19 Update from Mayor Simison

Tuesday, April 14, 2020

Virtual Coffee with Mayor Simison

Friday, April 10, 2020

COVID-19 Update from Mayor Simison

Wednesday, March 25, 2020

Stay-at-Home Order Video

Monday, March 23, 2020 (7:00 PM)

Meridian City Playgrounds are Closed to Prevent Spread of COVID-19

In an effort to help curb the spread of COVID-19, the City of Meridian is closing City playgrounds and outdoor exercise equipment effective immediately. Other areas of parks and pathways currently remain open to the public.

Press Conference with Mayor Simison

Friday, March 20, 2020 (2:45 PM)

City of Meridian Implements Social Distancing Order

The City of Meridian would like to thank Meridian residents, the business community, and faith leaders for their support and willingness to work together during this unprecedented time for the greater good of Meridian and the nation as a whole. During this time it is imperative that our society is taking personal responsibility for the decisions they make about where they go, what they do, and who they do it with.

Under authority provided by Idaho Code section 50-606 and Meridian City Code section 4-3-3, Mayor Simison has ordered all indoor and outdoor venues and events in Meridian, including restaurants, bars, and entertainment establishments to implement procedures ensuring a minimum of six feet of distance between parties of ten or less visiting the premises. The social distancing order is effective on March 21, 2020, at 12 a.m. and will remain in effect for fifteen days, through April 4, 2020. Mayor Simison will continue to re-evaluate the scope and duration of the order based on recommendations from Central District Health and the Centers for Disease Control.

Wednesday, March 18, 2020 (7:30 PM)

City of Meridian Closes Administrative Offices to Slow the Spread of COVID-19

Beginning Thursday, March 19, 2020 all City of Meridian administrative offices will close at Noon to the general public in an effort to slow the spread of COVID-19. While the buildings will be closed until further notice, City staff will work to continue city business and operations to the best of their ability while working remotely.

In addition to these efforts, as of March 18, 2020 Meridian Fire Chief Mark Niemeyer is becoming the acting Emergency Operations Manager during this crisis. With this, Deputy Chief of Operations, Charlie Butterfield, will be taking the role as acting Fire Chief during this time.

Monday, March 16, 2020 (5:30PM)

City of Meridian Cancels & Postpones Events, and Adjusts Daily Operations During State of Emergency Through April 15, 2020

Today, Meridian jointly issued a state of emergency declaration along with Ada and Canyon counties, and all of the cities located in the Treasure Valley. This step allows Meridian to stay ahead of any crisis and proactively pursue additional resources if needed to help prevent spread of COVID-19. Tomorrow evening, the City Council will consider a resolution extending this declaration for 30 days.

Monday, March 16, 2020 (12:00pm)

LOCAL GOVERNMENTS APPROVE EMERGENCY DECLARATIONS TO ASSIST IN COVID-19 READINESS AND RESPONSE

Ada and Canyon Counties and the associated cities of Boise, Caldwell, Eagle, Garden City, Greenleaf, Kuna, Melba, Meridian, Middleton, Nampa, Notus, Star, and Wilder are making disaster emergency declarations today – following the lead of Idaho Governor Brad Little, who made a similar declaration for the state on Friday.

Elected officials and government agencies in Ada and Canyon Counties have been actively monitoring the spread of Coronavirus throughout the world with the expectation of a potential spread of the virus in our region. The announcement of initial cases of COVID-19 has confirmed our approach.

Saturday, March 14, 2020 (8:00AM)

The City of Meridian has been and will continue to work very closely with cities and counties, as well as health districts, throughout the Treasure Valley to ensure a consistent and unified approach to the COVID-19 virus. With the recent announcement of a confirmed case in the Treasure Valley, we expect to continue these efforts for the foreseeable future.

Following guidance provided by Central District Health’s Interim Guidance for Mass Gatherings and Public Events in Idaho, the City of Meridian has made the decision to cancel or postpone a number of upcoming special events hosted by the City. These changes are in an effort to protect the health and safety of residents, visitors, and staff. All City sponsored events taking place through April 15, 2020, meeting the guidelines below, will be affected:

• The event will draw audiences or participants from communities, states, or countries with confirmed community spread of COVID-19 virus.
• The event will be held indoors and bring together more than 250 individuals where social distancing of 6 feet or more is unlikely or not possible.
• The event’s primary audience includes or may expose high-risk populations, including adults over the age of 60 years and people with underlying chronic medical conditions like heart or lung disease or diabetes, regardless of the number of attendees.

Tuesday, March 10, 2020 (4:30PM)

The City is currently operating business as usual while keeping in close contact with County, State and National agencies for any updates or changes in the situation. Our staff are actively participating with the local Ada County Emergency Management planning group and are part of regional planning discussions. In the event that the risk level in Idaho changes, or recommendations are made by Central District Health, Idaho Health & Welfare, or the National CDC to alter plans for events, gatherings, or work practices in Idaho we will communicate those changes. According to Central District Health, as of yesterday (March 9), there have been no confirmed cases of COVID-19, also known as the "Coronavirus" in Idaho, and the individual risk is low at this time.

For the time being, we encourage residents to follow the Prevention tips below and utilize the following information sources...

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