Valley City (CSi)   City County Health District held its COVID-19 News Briefing May 27.

Each organization provided updates and information pertaining to recent developments in the COVID-19 community response.

The meeting airs live with replays on CSi TV 10 -The Replay Channel & CSi 68.   To view the briefing online, view it here at CSiNewsNOW.com or go to the CSi LiveStream at Facebook.

Speakers included:

City County Health District Administrator Theresa Will.  She said, there have been four positive cases in Barnes County, with no active cases.  1100 tests have been performed.

Local testing clinics will continue.  Next week at the Open Door Center, and CHI Mercy.

She added that North Dakota will be performing COVID-19 tests at all jails.

She pointed out guidelines for graduation parties.  Some of those include:  No more than 50 percent occupancy, limit guest lists, those at high risk should not attend, including those 65 year of age and older, and those with underlying health conditions.  Frequently sanitize all surfaces, wear face masks, and observe social distancing.  She said to hold the parties outdoors, if possible.

Valley City Fire Chief Scott Magnuson, said, no cases of COVID- 19 have been reported in the fire department, but the pandemic has negatively affected training.

He said the fire department has participated 167 birthday and anniversary celebrations.

The fire department also assisted with the “Broken Road,” project, with about 9,000 trees, removed and 1300 pounds of garbage.

He also reminded residents to fill out and return the 2020 census forms.

Barnes County Food Pantry, Director, Pat Hansen Director thanked the community for their support for the food pantry, with the pantry buying from local grocery stores.  She said the requests were high in March and is going up again this month.

The Senior Center will be continue doing home delivered meals, and take out by calling a day ahead.

She said the Center is not likely to be open for usual service before July 1.

Bus service will remain free of charge until July 1.  Bridgeview was tested, and all were negative for the COVID-19 virus.

Barnes County Commission President Bill Carlblom, said, Barnes County paved roads have had load restrictions removed, gravel roads are starting to be graded, and have load restrictions.  He reminded residents that the Jun 9 elections are vote by mail, only.

Valley City Mayor Dave Carlsrud, reiterated the importance of participating in the census, which adds to the local cash flow.

He reported that Rally in the Valley has been cancelled this year, with concerns with the COVID-19 pandemic.  (See separate story at CSiNewsNow.com)

He said getting out and participating in activities is good for physical and mental health.

He pointed out high numbers with positives in neighboring Cass County, and not to relax social distancing, adding that the Twin Cities area, is one of the hot spots in the nation for the COVID-19 virus.

The local briefings will continue through June this year.