Richland County Government released a multiphase plan aligned with guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) on Thursday to maintain essential services in preparation for a potential local COVID-19 outbreak.

Richland County Government staff is partnering with the Gills Creek Watershed Association to hold a litter sweep along Jackson Creek in Northeast Richland.

Richland County officials met Thursday afternoon to discuss the coronavirus and steps to take, if needed, to protect public health while balancing employee safety and continuity of service to residents.