Onondaga County Executive Ryan McMahon believes a technicality kept the state numbers from accurately reflecting the number of tests being done in the Central New York region. During his Monday briefing, McMahon said they are conducting enough tests per day, but a lag in processing is responsible for the lower than expected numbers that were included in Governor Andrew Cuomo’s presentation.
Region officials are talking with the state about the requirement, and McMahon is confident Central New York will enter Phase One by the end of the week.
“The only way that we’re not reopened is if the State of New York says, ‘All those tests you did have to be processed, sent to the health department, and sent to my office by that date,’” said McMahon. “That’s the only way we’re not open. We will attest that the tests have happened. It will be notarized.”
Governor Cuomo gave more detail about what type of businesses will be a part of Phase One reopenings. Low-risk businesses like landscaping and recreation will be included. McMahon said clarification on what other businesses are considered “low-risk” is coming later this week. In the meantime, he said businesses should start preparing.
“Get masks. Get hand sanitizer. Have a protocol. Have safety measures for your employees so they feel comfortable going back to work,” said McMahon. “But more guidance will be given to them. I know they will be prepared and flexible because many of these people have been wanting to get back to work for the past few weeks.”
That guidance on the reopening process for businesses is also expected in the next few days.
