Dozens Of Residents, Business Owners Implore RivCo To Reopen

RIVERSIDE COUNTY, CA — A large number of public commenters turned out Tuesday for the Riverside County Board of Supervisors meeting to address leaders about the possible rescinding of some public health orders put in place due to coronavirus concerns.

The livestream board meeting began at 9:30 a.m., but by noon there was still a line of public speakers waiting to be heard. The board recessed at 12:09 p.m. and will resume the public meeting at 1 p.m.

A majority of the commenters who have spoken urged the supervisors to rescind all county public health orders imposed by Dr. Cameron Kaiser. Asking the board to "restore freedoms," several commenters spoke of trampled liberties, struggling businesses, and "government overreach."

Less than a dozen commenters spoke in favor of keeping restrictions in place to protect vulnerable residents who are at high-risk of becoming very sick from COVID-19. Several of those public speakers urged the board to exercise caution and follow science.

The public health orders that are the topic of Tuesday's discussion include requiring face coverings be worn outside the home at all times — except for running, biking, hiking and walking — under penalty of misdemeanor charges and fines; banning short-term rentals except in the case of providing emergency shelter for vulnerable people; a limit on playing golf; school closures; and mandated social distancing.

During the meeting, protesters gathered outside the Riverside County Administration building on Lemon Street bearing signs supporting rescinding of public health orders: "Freedom is Essential: Open Riverside" and "Freedom Over Fear," two such signs read.

Public discussion on possibly rescinding the orders was not scheduled to begin until later in the day, but protocol was ditched upon approval from the county attorney.

Once the board meeting resumes at 1 p.m., it is expected public comments and board discussion on the matter will carry into later afternoon.

Stay tuned for updates.