WORTHINGTON — Worthington Mayor Mike Kuhle is continuing to urge local residents to heed Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz’s executive order and remain at home as much as possible during the COVID-19 pandemic.
On Wednesday, Walz extended Minnesota’s stay-at-home order to May 4; it was originally scheduled to expire on April 10. Kuhle acknowledged that while the restrictions are difficult on several fronts, following them is critical to public health.
The first case of COVID-19 in Nobles County was confirmed Thursday, while the city of Worthington remains without a confirmed case.
“Let’s keep up the good health and hygiene recommendations to keep our community safe.," Kuhle said. "This will pay off in the end and let us recover quickly.”
The mayor also expressed his gratitude to medical personnel for their efforts in helping to limit the spread of the novel coronavirus.
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“On behalf of the community of Worthington, I would like to say thank you to the nurses, doctors, and the support employees of both Avera and Sanford,” Kuhle said. “Your commitment to the health of our residents is appreciated.”
Additionally, Kuhle credited the Worthington business community for persevering during the current pandemic situation, noting that several businesses have modified their operations and stepped hygiene-related efforts.
“To the businesses that are still open to serve the basic needs of our residents, thank you,” he said. “Your employees that continue to work are the best of the best.”
The mayor also said that while it’s important to support local businesses during this time, it’s also wise to limit the number of business visits when possible. Grocery shopping, for instance, should be limited to one longer trip per week rather than multiple short ones, said Kuhle, and other means of doing business locally while remaining at home as much as possible should be considered.
“Myself and all residents of Worthington should limit our shopping needs as much as possible,” Kuhle said. “So far we have done a good job, but we could always do better.
“At this time, it’s not wise to browse through businesses because we are bored or want something to do. “We understand that people need to get out, but there are other ways to do that like going on a walk, riding your bike or taking a car ride around the lake. Keeping distance from people is important.”
