Sho-Ban Tribal government ceases all but essential operations
Tribal Business Center entrance.
By LORI ANN EDMO
Sho-Ban News
FORT HALL — Shoshone-Bannock Tribal government ceased all but essential operations March 20 after receiving notification from Southeast Idaho Health District of a positive case of COVID-19 within 25 miles of the Fort Hall Indian Reservation border.
Safety leave is implemented for permanent and temporary employees for 14 calendar days.
The Tribal Office of Emergency Management Emergency Operations Center (EOC) is monitoring the COVID-19 pandemic according to the EOC press release. The Fort Hall Business Council declared a state of emergency within the Fort Hall Indian Reservation March 17.
The reduction in tribal governmental services is to protect the health and welfare of the Fort Hall community according to the Emergency Management office. If a tribal government employee has further questions he or she can call 208-344-8327 for employment related concerns.
As of March 25, there were 100 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Idaho.
The FHBC urges everyone to self-isolate, observe social distancing and if one has COVID-19 symptoms according to CDC guidelines to contact a medical provider.
The CDC advises coronavirus symptoms may occur two to 14 days after exposure that could include fever, cough or shortness of breath. Emergency warning signs include trouble breathing, persistent pain or pressure in the chest, new confusion or inability to arouse or bluish lips or face.
Social distancing is avoiding large crowds, working from home and staying at least six feet away from other people to lessen chances of catching COVID-19.
The Tribes have arranged for distribution of potatoes March 26 to tribal members with those 55 and older from 9 to 11 a.m. and thereafter for all other tribal members until they are gone.
Tribal Transit is not operating. Solid Waste is continuing to operate.
The main door to the Justice Center is locked so if one needs to make a police report go to the after hours entrance. When calling in to dispatch to make a report, because of COVID-19, they will be asking medical questions for the officers safety. Questions include do you have a fever? Do you have difficulty breathing, flu-like symptoms or a cough? Have you had contact with anyone suspected of a confirmed case of coronavirus? In the last 30 days have you traveled to another state or country?
