According to information released by the Umatilla County Health District, the county's application to move back to Phase 2 has been accepted.

Effective immediately, the county is back to where it was six weeks ago. Many sources have told us the circumstances of their demotion from Phase 2 to lock down were mysterious and strange.  Namely, the refusal of County Commissioners to voluntarily drop back to Phase 1, then OSU COVID Trace units 'show up' in Hermiston. Then four days later, Gov. Kate Brown demoted them back two spots.

Now, back to Phase 2. Pools, movie theaters, bowling alleys and some other venues can re-open, and larger gatherings allowed. However concerts, large sporting events and conventions are still not allowed by the state.

The economic impact of the lockdown is still being tabulated, but it's expected to be considerable. August 21, the county had been allowed to move back to Phase 1.

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