Williamson County, Texas

Since April 1, 2020, the Williamson County call center, which was created to answer residents’ concerns over COVID-19, has been pulling double duty. In addition to answering calls, they have added making hundreds of outbound calls to their daily workload. Except these are not just any calls, they are special one-on-one calls intended to make sure all veterans in Williamson County feel appreciated and acknowledged.  

On April 21, 2020, Williamson County Judge Bill Gravell signed new orders to ensure consistency between the Williamson County Stay Home Stay Safe Order issued March 24, 2020, and the State of Texas Executive Orders GA 15 and GA 16. Effective beginning at 11:59 p.m. on April 21, 2020, the Stay Home Stay Safe Order is amended pertaining to “Healthcare Operations.” Effective beginning at 12:01 a.m. on April 24, 2020, the Stay Home Stay Safe Order is amended to allow retail businesses not defined as essential businesses to operate in limited capacity. A copy of the new orders with specific requirements can be found on the County’s website here.

Since its inception a little more than a week ago, the Williamson County Mask Brigade has been busy making between 2,000 to 3,000 cloth face masks. The group has two mask types that they are asking volunteers to make. The COVID Ranger Mask, which is to be worn over N95 masks by medical personnel and first responders, and the Safety Mask, which can be worn by nursing home residents and essential county workers who interact with the public. Williamson County EMS received 146 of the COVID Ranger masks Thursday.  For more information on joining the Mask Brigade, go to www.wilco.org/howcanIhelp. 

Do you have a family member, friend, acquaintance and/or any person who relies on another for support that needs to be checked on during this pandemic? 

The Williamson County Sheriff's Office has set up an email for those who may need a deputy to attempt contact with your loved ones or those you care for if you are unable. To initiate a wellness check, please email: elderlyconcern@wilco.org. Click the story title for more information. 

Do you have an embroidering machine, or own a sewing machine that you are ready to use during social distancing? How about scissors?  We are looking for you!  In an effort to support first responders, medical professionals, and other essential personnel who may be dealing with the ongoing supply shortage of personal protective equipment (PPE), the Williamson County Commissioners Court has established a Mask Brigade under the leadership of the 26th District Court Judge Donna King. Working in partnership with COVID Rangers and Reid’s Cleaners, the volunteer task force will make fabric masks intended to provide a layer of protection from transmission of airborne contaminants that will later be distributed in compliance with Local Government Code and all applicable state law to those at the frontlines of the battle against COVID-19. For details, go to www.wilco.org/howcanIhelp.