Valley businesses remain open despite COVID-19 concern

MAT-SU — The impact of the coronavirus outbreak that has spread around the world is additionally impacting global and local economies. Gov. Mike Dunleavy said in his press conference on Monday that he would be outlining his plan to battle economic fallout in the coming days but has made it clear that health concerns over the COVID 19 infections takes priority over economic concerns. While Anchorage instituted a ban on bars and breweries being open at 5 p.m. on Monday, the Valley does not have any such plans.

“We don’t have health powers. However, our community has kind of come together and I think is making wise decisions so private persons and private businesses certainly have that right and they’ve been spot on,” said Borough Manager John Moosey.

Without health powers in the borough, neither the Mat-Su Borough Assembly nor Mayor Vern Halter can restrict businesses who wish to remain open as citizens practice social distancing to help prevent the spread of COVID 19. As of Monday, three people have tested positive for COVID 19 in Alaska. The first was a cargo pilot who self quarantined almost immediately.

Two other positive tests were reported Monday night.

As for establishments in the Valley, they will remain open for business unless anything changes.

“I don’t plan on doing anything like that until I get an order or a mandate from the governor or the feds,” said Wasilla Mayor Bert Cottle.

Wasilla issued a press release on Monday reiterating that the Wasilla Public Library, Menard Sports Complex and museum and visitors center would remain closed until March 31. Palmer manager Nathan Wallace issued a press release on Monday that Palmer’s closures would extend until April 3.

“The businesses in the city of Palmer are not required to follow the mandate issued by the municipality of Anchorage. We do encourage businesses to follow best practices for sanitation and to expand ways of social distancing within their families so that risk of community transmission in our community is minimized,” wrote Wallace. “There is no need for panic at this time or in the future if we all prepare, mitigate exposure, and support each other from a safe distance.”

Both the offices of Palmer and Wasilla will remain open, but administrations are asking citizens to practice social distancing if they require assistance in person. Palmer’s Public Library, train depot, MTA Events Center and public restrooms will also remain closed until April 3 and Wallace said that a liberal cancelation fee refund policy is in effect for individuals or organizations who had planned to use those facilities prior to the outbreak.

For more information, visit coronavirus.alaska.gov or cdc.gov/coronavirus.