HAYESVILLE, NC – Clay County citizens took to social media in the days following the county’s State of Emergency declaration on March 24, voicing concern that the Clay County Board of Commissioners’ approach to the COVID-19 pandemic may be passive in response. FYN began looking into Clay County’s plans following citizen confusion as to whether the county campground would continue to welcome visitors in the midst of the national crisis.

“The Clay County Board of Commissioners has been continually monitoring developments on a national, state and local level and making rational decisions based on factual information,” Clay County Chairman Rob Peck said on Wednesday evening. “It has come to our attention that many have taken to social media to voice their displeasure as to our campground. What they don’t know is that our Commissioners have been in discussions as to how to proceed for the last two weeks. Each Commissioner was asked to provide their opinions to the Chairman by tonight so a decision could be announced tomorrow. This would allow two days for staff to contact those who have booked reservations as well as those who are seasonal renters. We have a great team who has been working tirelessly to prepare the campground for the season and provide an exceptional experience for our residents and visitors alike. We appreciate their effort! That said, the board has decided to take a reasonable and measured action of delaying the opening of our camping season until Saturday, April 18th. This applies to Gibson Cove and the Recreation Park adjacent to it. We will re-evaluate if necessary at the appropriate time. An emergency declaration is not needed to adjust dates and hours of operation.”

Peck stated that there are no plans for a “shelter in place” order for Clay County unless the State of North Carolina issues such. “Please understand that these shelter in place orders affect very little additional businesses (due to exemptions) then those already shut due to executive order,” Peck said.

North Carolina citizens can dial 211 or text COVIDNC to 898211 to sign up for updates on the COVID-19 pandemic.

Citizen information from Clay County residents can be submitted to FYN by emailing [email protected]