As a critical infrastructure provider, Bandera Electric Cooperative (BEC) provides essential services of electricity and broadband to its members and was exempt from Governor Abbott’s social distancing and stay at home orders. Nevertheless, when the Governor issued these orders, BEC made changes to work locations and processes to protect the health and safety of our members. BEC closed its lobbies while keeping drive through lanes open and has continued to emphasize the social distancing practice for employees that must interact with other employees or members. In situations where social distancing cannot be maintained BEC provides personal protective equipment including masks, sanitizer and gloves.
Earlier this week, the Governor issued his latest order dealing with the COVID-19 disaster. While the Governor’s plan permits in-store retail, restaurants, movie theaters, shopping malls, museums and libraries to open at 25% of capacity, it also maintains most of the social distancing directives in place since March 19, 2020 extending those restrictions to May 15, 2020. In addition, School will not recommence for the 2019-2020 school year and childcare facilities remain closed.
The management team is currently working on the plan for a phased reopening. The safety and welfare of BEC employees, their families, and BEC members is the key aspect of plan. Accordingly, the plan for a phased reopening will depend on the availability of supplies like disinfectant, hand sanitizer, face coverings and our ability to make the necessary changes to facilities to ensure safety for employees and members. We are targeting May 18, 2020 as the first phase of reopening but that is subject to change and will not include a reopening of our lobbies. We will continue to advise you throughout this process. For now, be safe, be well, and stay tuned for additional updates. Thank you for your membership in BEC.
Posted Friday, May 1, 2020