At today’s meeting for Discussion and Action Related to COVID-19 Pandemic Response, the Cook County Board of Commissioners voted to revise the county’s travel advisory in light of recent changes to StaySafeMN guidelines.

The changes, part of phase three of Governor Tim Walz’s StaySafeMN plan, went into effect June 10. Updating the travel advisory to align with the new guidelines is an important way to support safe reopening, said Board Chair Myron Bursheim.

"It is our intent as a county board to inform our community and visitors with updated information regarding the pandemic,” Bursheim said. “These recommendations are meant to be consistent with Governor Walz's latest actions and provide information pertaining to our local situation.” 

Bursheim said that the board will review the travel advisory weekly and update it when warranted. 

“I want to thank everyone for their cooperation during these uncertain times,” Bursheim said. “We are so much better working together."

The advisory was approved by a  4-1 vote, with Commissioner Doo-Kirk opposing.

Cook County Travel Advisory – June 16, 2020, Revision

This is a revision to a travel advisory issued by the Cook County Board of Commissioners on Tuesday, May 26, 2020, with regards to the COVID-19 pandemic. The County Board above all advises that all residents and visitors abide by the most recent Executive Orders issued by the governor.

In keeping with Gov. Tim Walz’s actions to move Minnesota from “Stay at Home” to “Stay Safe” and his subsequent actions to gradually and cautiously “turn the dial” toward a more open economy,  the Cook County Board of Commissioners issues this travel advisory for persons planning to visit Cook County. 

Please take seriously the guidance from Gov. Walz to protect workers, visitors and our communities while gradually reopening our economy in a safe and respectful manner.

1. Businesses have developed plans to operate safely.  Access to businesses may be limited and may require that individuals wear face coverings.  Grocery store procedures currently vary from limited entry to curbside pick-up only.
2. Restaurant service varies from limited seating to take-out only.  Patience and adherence to posted public health policies are requested as restaurants work to serve guests as safely as possible.
3. Visitors are asked to please respect new policies at places of lodging to protect the health of both workers and guests.  Some campgrounds may be closed, have restrictions, or have limited service.  Please call ahead and plan ahead.
4. Cook County is home to a significant population of people who are at high risk of complications of COVID-19, including elders and those with compromised immune systems. Visitors are asked to help us protect the health of our community by rigorous adherence to social distancing, wearing face coverings and washing hands.  Visitors who are feeling sick before they arrive should stay home. Visitors who get here and start to feel sick should call Sawtooth Mountain Clinic at 218-387-2330 or their regular health care provider.  Your regular health care team can offer you continuity of care.  For emergencies please dial 911.
5. This is an everchanging and very serious health situation. Cook County needs to be diligent in its response and will change this advisory as needed. 

For the most current information, including information about business hours and services, related to Cook County’s COVID-19 response please visit: www.cookcountycovid19.org.