In the December 4, 2020 press release, San Mateo County stated it will work with the community and businesses to enforce the state's strictest existing restrictions under its "purple tier" category, diverging from other Bay Area counties. By remaining as open as allowed, county officials hope to give business owners a chance at economic survival while operating safely.
San Mateo County Health Officer Dr. Scott Morrow stated San Mateo County will not place further restrictions on the county until required under the state system. Board of Supervisors President Warren Slocum said he supports Morrow’s decision, adding “let’s give people a chance to comply.”
In a statement released on Friday, December 5, 2020, the County stated: "As other Bay Area Health officials today announced that they would impose new local stay-at-home orders, the County of San Mateo remains focused on following the state’s existing metrics and process, while reinforcing the public’s responsibility to comply with existing safety measures – especially avoiding gatherings – to slow the spread of COVID-19 during the holiday season.
Accordingly, while the County understands and appreciates the measures taken by the other Bay Area counties, San Mateo will not at this time be issuing a new local stay-at-home order and will continue to work with business and community leaders on adherence to existing guidelines. San Mateo County remains in the purple Tier 1 on the state’s four-tier, color-coded system for restricting and loosening activities.
County of San Mateo officials urge all residents to act assertively to prevent the spread of the COVID-19 by stepping up vigilance about all health and safety measures – especially avoiding gatherings – to slow the spread of COVID-19."
