TELLER COUNTY, Colo. — Teller County officials on Monday said it received a variance from the state to open casinos, bars and other locations, including houses of worship and movie theaters.
The county has had one COVID-19 case in the last two weeks, according to data from the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE), which approved the variance.
The county can open casinos but only the slot machines. The re-opening of gaming tables will be considered in three weeks, according to the CDPHE.
The following restrictions will be in place for the casinos and other locations approved in the variance:
• Capacity will be limited to 50% of the posted occupancy code limit, ensuring a minimum 28 square feet per person not to exceed more than 175 people at any given time in a confined indoor space, and 250 people in any outdoor setting.
• Employees and contracted workers will be monitored daily for symptoms, and symptomatic employees shall be excluded from the workplace and isolated until they are fever free for 72 hours, other symptoms have improved, and at least 10 days have passed since they became symptomatic.
• Employees will be required to wear face coverings at all times while working.
• Provide accommodations for vulnerable individuals who remain encouraged to follow the Stay at Home requirements.
• Require signage on doors telling guests that are experiencing COVID-like symptoms not to enter, and recommend that the sign posted at the door is the CDC sign.
County movie theaters can also re-open but with social distancing guidelines and symptom screening at the door.
On Sunday, the Gilpin County Board of Public Health voted to re-open casinos in Black Hawk and Central City, also allowing only for slot machines.
The CDPHE's approved variance for Gilpin County includes the same restrictions as the one for Teller County.
