MILAM SHELTER-IN-PLACE EXPIRING FRIDAY

Milam County Commissioners voted 4-1 Thursday morning to end the county's Shelter-In-Place order, effective at 12:01 a.m.. Friday (May 8).

 That brings the county in line with an executive order issued by Gov. Greg Abbott. who had allowed the state order to expire.

Voting in favor of the expiration were County Judge Steve Young and Commissioners Opey Watkins, Donald Shuffield and Jeff Muegge. Commissioner John Fisher voted against.

 County offices will be allowed to open or stay closed to the public at their own discretion.

 Young said the two main changes are in social gatherings and a  nightly curfew. The county's order had prohibited all social gatherings, while the governor's calls on the public to "minimize" social gatherings. Both call on Texans to take precautions including wearing masks and maintain appropriate distancing during any such gathering.

 The other change won't affect Rockdale in a meaningful way. Young said the countywide curfew, mandated by the county's order, has been lifted. But, inside the City of Rockdale there is a permanent teen curfew for those under 18 from 11p.m. to 6 a.m.

 County Judge Steve Young said shortly after the action he was advised of a 19th case of COVID-19 in the county. He said the person has self-quarantined and has not been hospitalized.