COVID-19 UPDATES FOR COUNTY OFFICIALS

As issues continue to develop and change at a quick rate with COVID-19, the Coronavirus, we at the Wisconsin Counties Association (WCA) are working alongside Governor Tony Evers, the Administration, the National Association of Counties (NACo) and our general counsel, Attolles Law, s.c., to provide the latest resources and updates to assist county officials during this unprecedented time.

COVID-19 Daily Update: 3.18.2020

March 18, 2020

WCEA/WCA COVID-19 UPDATE WEBINAR
 On Wednesday, March 18, the Wisconsin County Executives and Administrators Association, along with WCA, hosted a webinar to discuss the many issues facing counties regarding the COVID-19 pandemic. Andrew Phillips of von Briesen led the webinar, with topics covered including yesterday’s DHS Emergency Order #5, a review of WCA’s request of Governor Tony Evers, the county tracking of expenses related to COVID-19, and closure of buildings and departments.

View the 3.18.2020 WCEA WCA COVID-19 Webinar: https://vimeo.com/398598746

COUNTY AND CITY LEADERS CONFERENCE CALL
 Also on Wednesday, over 150 county and city leaders participated in a conference call, hosted by the Wisconsin Counties Association and the League of Wisconsin Municipalities, to discuss COVID-19 issues and efforts in their communities. The call was initiated by Outagamie County Executive Thomas Nelson and City of Milwaukee Mayor Tom Barrett. In addition, Chuck Warzecha, Deputy Administrator, Division of Public Health, DHS, participated and discussed the state’s efforts, as well as answered questions from local officials.

TRACKING OF COUNTY EXPENSES RELATED TO COVID-19
 Today in a call with the White House, it was again recommended for local governments to track all expenses, including personnel, for possible reimbursement.

While the White House has not issued any guidance on which categories of spending will potentially qualify for reimbursement, WCA wants to reiterate this advice to county leaders. We at the Association will keep you informed with any additional information related to county reimbursements.