AUSTIN (KXAN) — On Wednesday, Governor Greg Abbott announced bars in areas where COVID-19 hospitalizations are low will be able to reopen at 50% capacity. County judges have to agree to it first, though. They can start opting in as soon as Oct. 14.
KXAN reached out judges across Central Texas to see if they're on board with reopening bars.
In favor of reopening bars
Williamson County Judge Bill Gravell said he wants to be the first judge in all of Texas to reopen bars.
"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," Gravell said in a statement. "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."
Burnet County Judge James Oakley said only one city in the county has bars—the City of Marble Falls. He said he spoke with the mayor, and they plan to move forward with reopening.
"Only one of the municipalities in Burnet County has 'bars,' that being the City of Marble Falls. I spoke with the Mayor this afternoon who indicated to me that he was in favor of opening those establishments as allowed by the new order. Therefore, it will be my intention to take the steps necessary to do just that," Oakley said in a statement.
Need more time
Many county judges in our area said they simply need more time to look over the order and consult with local public health officials.
Bastrop County Judge Paul Pape said he's not fond of how the governor rolled out his plan without consulting judges first.
"Ironically, I've heard nothing from the Governor's office. One would think that the Governor would have contacted us County Judges directly about something this important," Pape said in a statement. "I am seeking the counsel of our Local Health Authority and other policy makers."
Hays County Judge Ruben Becerra said he wants to make a decision that's in the best interest of the community.
"We will be reaching out to all local officials to ensure we are considering all aspects of this change before we make any public comments on the direction of the county," he said in a statement. "It is imperative that we take precaution and make all efforts to ensure that our decision is made in the best interest of our community."
On behalf of Travis County Judge Sam Biscoe, Public Information Officer Hector Nieto said Biscoe will be taking time to look over the order and consult with Austin-Travis County health authorities.
"Travis County Judge Sam Biscoe intends to take the next several days to speak with the County Attorney's office and determine what authority has finally been returned to local governments based on Governor Abbott's announcement."
Opposed to reopening bars
So far, there aren't any county judges who've said they oppose reopening bars at this time.
Mason County Judge Jerry Bearden said parts of the new order don't really apply to them.
"We don't have any bars, only two restaurants with a bar," Bearden said in a statement.
KXAN is still awaiting responses from county judges in the area and will update this story when those responses are received.
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