WilCo Judge Vows To Allow Bars' Reopening By Oct. 14, 2020

WILLIAMSON COUNTY, TX — On the heels of a gubernatorial order calling for bars to reopen amid the coronavirus pandemic, the Williamson County judge said Wednesday he will move to allow such businesses to open up again.

Gov. Greg Abbott on Wednesday issued an order allowing for bars to reopen at up to 50 percent occupancy by Oct. 14. Even as myriad businesses have been allowed to open at limited occupancy, bars have remained closed given close quarters that could heighten spread of the virus.

"Williamson County Judge Bill Gravell wants Williamson County to be open for business," an advisory alerting to the judge's agreement with the order, which allows for bars' reopening at the direction of county judges. "He plans to be the first county judge in Texas to opt in with the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission (TABC) to allow bars and similar establishments to operate with in-person service at 50 percent while following Governor Abbott’s minimum standard health protocols.

Related story: Bars Set To Reopen In Texas At 50% Occupancy Amid Coronavirus

Gravell echoed the sentiment in a prepared statement: “It is time for all of our businesses to be open to serve our public while following the Governor’s health protocols to be safe," he said. "Our county residents have shown that they can be smart and protect themselves and others, so I will be choosing for Williamson County to opt in on October 14. This is another step forward for us as a community, and we can do this safely and wisely.