We applaud the Escambia County (Ala.) Commission for passing a 'continuity of government' resolution that will allow the county government to continue to function in the event the board does not have a quorum to make decisions.
Other local governments need take a look at that policy as well.
Back in March, when the COVID-19 pandemic was spreading like wildfire and things changed not only daily, but hourly, decisions had to be made. The commission passed a state of emergency resolution to allow the chairman, vice chairman and administrator to act on behalf of the entire commission.
That order was rescinded on June 8 when the commission held its first face-to-face meeting since March 17.
Things have gotten worse in the past few weeks and decisions still have to be made. The resolution passed by the commission Monday is a safety net of sorts. It was understood that if the entire commission or a quorum of the commission could meet, that's the route they would take. But in the event some get sick and quick decisions need to be made, the commission now has a tool to proceed with pressing business that needs to take place.
We still don't know what's going to happen with COVID-19. We do expect the federal government to turn loose trillions of dollars in COVID relief money at some point. When that money gets turned loose, states, counties and cities will have to pass resolutions to seek those dollars. With no plan in place to make those decisions without a quorum of the body, some may be left out.
If those funds are anything like the Payroll Protection Plan, they will be given out on a first-come, first-served basis and the first government bodies to pass resolutions will be the first to receive funds.
Such a move takes trust from the other elected officials who won't be making those decisions in the event a quorum can't be reached. The county commission showed its trust for each other Monday in its decision.
We hope this new 'continuity of government' resolution is never needed and we hope everyone stays healthy. But it's a good tool to have in your back pocket if the need arises.
