2020-07-15 Economic Recovery ForumEconomic Recovery Forum
July 15, 2020
1:04 p.m.
Present: Commissioner Stamper, Commissioner Fund, Commissioner Jackson, Internal Services Chief
Steve Wohld, Becky Butler, Larry McGee, Michelle Whitten, Maria Andrews, Matt Patana, Alison
Puckett, Annalee Tobey, Tamara Hayes, Pe Ell Mayor Lonnie Willey, Pam Peiper of U.S. Rep. Jaime
Herrera Beutler’s office, Christine Nhan of Sen. Patty Murray’s office, Cynthia Swift, Napavine Mayor
Shawn O’Neill
Recorder: Rieva Lester
A representative from the Little Crane restaurant in Vader said many customers are upset about the
mask mandate and are treating staff poorly as a result.
Pam Peiper of U.S. Rep. Jaime Herrera Beutler’s office said Congress will return to session the following
week.
Christine Nhan of Sen. Patty Murray’s office said Sen. Murray has asked for additional funding for
vaccination.
Larry McGee said the Lewis County Together group received 59 applications (with requests totaling
$379,000) for the grants bankrolled by Lewis County using Coronavirus Relief Funding.
Tamara Hayes discussed a public relations campaign regarding mask use so small businesses don’t get
shut down.
Annalee Tobey urged business owners to use signs to help encourage mask use to protect small
businesses. She encouraged businesses such as the Little Crane to reach out to her for help with
messaging and signage. Annalee said Chehalis Community Renaissance Team (CCRT) several businesses
have applied for and are using CCRT’s marketing grants. She said three businesses recently applied for
façade grants.
Larry McGee said Lewis County Together has masks and hand sanitizer available.
Becky Butler said Commerce reported the previous day that the CARES Act will be releasing additional
funding soon. She said a meeting with all of the cities will be held at 3 p.m. July 29 to discuss
participation in the CDBG CV-1 grant.
Cynthia Swift said East Lewis County businesses have reported that they’re experiencing pushback
regarding the statewide mask requirement.
Steve Wohld discussed the requirements set forth in the Health Order 20-03.
Meeting ended at 1:34 p.m.