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The Bedford County commissioners appealed to Gov. Tom Wolf on Wednesday to reopen the county.
In a 40-minute conference call, the commissioners strongly urged the governor's representatives to change the status of Bedford County from red to yellow, the commissioners said in a news release.
Commissioners said they advised those participating in the call that they were very disappointed not to be included in the yellow phase on May 1, and that there is growing frustration among citizens and business owners who want to reopen. They said that any business that can comply with the safety guidelines recommended by medical professionals should be deemed eligible to open now.
The Board of Commissioners also told the representatives that the need for those furloughed due to the COVID-19 virus is their unemployment checks. Many applied for benefits six weeks ago and just this week received confirmation that their claims have been received and reviewed. Commissioners said it is unacceptable that they must now wait another four to six weeks before they will receive a check. Others have not received any communication about their unemployment status.
Bedford County commissioners Chairman Josh Lang, Vice-chairman Barry Dallara and Secretary Deb Baughman asked for a response to their request by Friday.