The Challenges of Restrictions
By: 5th District Supervisor, Debbie Arnold
Fall seemed to arrive late this year with the hot days lasting into October. The cooler evenings and mornings have finally arrived. Except for the cooler weather, this fall season feels very different than any other I can remember.
The restrictions brought on by the reaction to Covid-19 have changed all our lives, and it has not been as temporary as we all expected it would be.
As an elected local official, I feel as frustrated as the many constituents who have contacted me these past few months. Your county government, just like many county citizens, is struggling with the challenges of following the Governor’s orders. Many businesses have had to adjust their business models, sometimes at great expense. Many employees have had unexpected changes in the way they are able to work. Parents are struggling with work and school scheduling conflicts. Students of all ages are trying to adjust to new ways of learning. Many seniors are missing spending time with family members. Still, the most challenging thing of all seems to be the uncertainty of what the future holds.
As we enter the holiday season, people will be missing many of the traditional events and activities. These changes will affect so many of our local businesses.
I appreciate more than ever the efforts of the Atascadero Chamber of Commerce.
The Chamber staff and Board are working hard to support their members as they adjust to these changing times. Offering everything from virtual information meetings to shared workspace offices, the chamber provides struggling businesses many resources to help make the regulatory changes necessary to comply with the ever-changing state requirements.
The County continues to provide services and is working hard to provide updated information to all the changes to the Governor’s orders. Information on how to access County services, including Covid-19 testing, can be found at Readyslo.org. This website can also help you navigate business support services and provides information on the Governor’s reopening plan.
For information on the upcoming election and the location and hours of polling locations, call the County Clerk’s office at (805) 781-‐5080.
Please do not hesitate to call my office at (805) 781-‐4339 if we can be of assistance in helping you locate information. I will continue to advocate on your behalf for the safe and full opening of schools, businesses, and churches.
It is an honor to serve as your 5th District Supervisor,
-Debbie Arnold
5th District Supervisor, Debbie Arnold
Debbie Arnold moved to San Luis Obispo County in 1973 to attend Cal Poly, she fell in love with both her husband, Steve, and the farming and ranching values that had been a part of the Arnold family way of life for more than 5 generations. While raising two children, she owned and operated a small business in Atascadero for more than 17 years. She then had the privilege of advocating for local families as a Legislative Aide at the County Supervisor’s office and as a San Luis Obispo District Representative for the State Senate. During these years, she worked with a broad range of community groups and interests, bringing people together to solve problems. Debbie Arnold now serves as the 5th District Supervisor for San Luis Obispo County.
