Some bars, restaurants not following coronavirus order, health commissioner says

For the first time, a positive coronavirus patient from Montgomery County is among the now 119 confirmed cases in Ohio, with more expected as testing continues.

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“It’s not really about the number of cases, it’s what we can do to control the spread,” Health Commissioner Jeff Cooper said during the Public Health - Dayton & Montgomery County’s daily update.

Cooper said he is disturbed that his office has received complaints that some establishments are not following the orders to only serve carry-out and delivery, with no food consumption inside or in the parking lot.

“Those orders are legally enforceable,” Cooper said.

“Public Health is now issuing orders to comply to those establishments,” he said. “Please do not test our resolve on this issue. We are in the midst of a pandemic.”

Cooper refused to name the businesses but said there were about four or five bars or restaurants, and that law enforcement also spoke with them before the health department became involved.

“Our preference is that they will voluntarily comply. We do not want any organization, any establishment to lose their license. We just want to protect our citizens,” Cooper said.

Dayton Mayor Nan Whaley said she understands how difficult it is for businesses, but that human life can’t be monetized.

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