Walking Back the Quarantine

On Monday, Gossips reported on an undated letter from Mayor Kamal Johnson that had been sent to every lodging tax registrant. The letter asked proprietors of short-term rentals to "limit rentals to 14 days or longer and advise guests to self-quarantine (when traveling from outside Columbia County)." Yesterday, a new letter, dated June 3, was forwarded by the treasurer's office to the same recipients. Some of the text of the letter is the same as the previous letter, but the new letter notably omits the recommendation about self-quarantine.

Dear Short Term Rental Owners,

We are a small community that depends on visitors, and we must find ways to work together to keep Hudson safe. As Mayor and neighbor, I am asking you to consider adapting your short-term rental operations to our new reality.

Last week, I shared recommendations with you. Since then Columbia County has changed its public health messaging. In its daily press release, the county is no longer including a message that travelers should self-quarantine. Although, county and state officials are still advising against travel. In addition, the Capital Region has entered Phase 2 of reopening. Also, outdoor dining is allowed as of June 4.

Reviewing county, state, and federal guidelines we have updated our recommendations, and continue to urge visitors to Hudson to follow the same guidelines as our residents.

• Physical Distance: If guests leave the rental, encourage them to keep a safe distance of six feet from others.
• Wash your hands often
• Wear masks whenever near people outside their party. Consider providing your guests masks upon arrival

I ask that you share a letter addressed to your guests available at cityofhudson.org/guest. Effective action now will help us fully reopen sooner. These guidelines may change in the coming weeks to reflect changes in best practices.

Hudson enjoys and welcomes its visitors and we ask that all residents and guests join together and do their part. More information is available at cityofhudson.org/safe.

In the letter addressed to guests, the recommendation to self-quarantine has been replaced by this guideline:

REDUCE INTERACTIONS If you leave your rental, reduce the number of interactions you have with people.