During their April 1 meeting, the Fulton County Board of Commissioners approved a strategy to address the impact of COVID-19, including a plan to address the growing need for health and safety resources; funding for emergency relief; and a plan to address the impact on Fulton County’s workforce.

During the meeting, the Board of Commissioners received detailed updates from an interagency taskforce, including the Atlanta-Fulton County Emergency Management Agency, the Fulton County Board of Health, Grady Health System, the Fulton County Justice System, and operational departments. Fulton County’s COVID-19 plan addresses resource needs to meet the projected impact on the healthcare system and other key services as the spread of the virus within Fulton County continues.

The Board of Commissioners also approved $10 million in funding to provide community-based relief for COVID-19, with emphasis on senior services, small business loans, and homelessness. These local funds will augment funding from federal and state governments.

The Board ratified a countywide “Shelter in Place” order, implemented by the Board of Health, which requires all Fulton County residents to stay home unless they are conducting one of a limited number of activities, including maintaining supplies for their household, caring for family members, or operating an essential business or government service.

Commission Chairman Robb Pitts emphasized the importance of the comprehensive plan and additional funding.

“COVID-19 has rapidly changed the lives of thousands of Fulton County residents in just a matter of weeks,” said Pitts. “We have the most cases of any Georgia county, and we know that people need help. We are acting swiftly to meet needs in our community, including the needs of our most vulnerable residents.”

“Fulton County Government continues to serve residents every day,” said County Manager Dick Anderson. “The resources allocated by the Board of Commissioners will allow us to meet needs in the community and ensure that our employees can continue rising to the challenge of protecting the life and safety of our residents.”

The Board of Commissioners also approved a plan to ensure that Fulton County employees currently on administrative leave will continue to receive compensation, and be re-assigned as the County Manager determines appropriate and until normal operations resume.

Residents seeking information about Fulton County’s COVID-19 response may log on to www.fultoncountyga.gov/covid-19