Will the Ellsworth Municipal Swimming Pool open as usual on Memorial Day Weekend? Will Cowtown Days dance down the streets of downtown as they have almost every year since anyone can remember?

So many questions and not nearly enough answers, although that could change this week if Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly decides to loosen even more restrictions aimed at limiting the spread of the coronavirus pandemic.

Kerianne Ehrlich, supervisor of the Ellsworth County Health Department, told members of the Ellsworth City Council Monday night the word in Topeka is that Kelly could make an announcement today or Friday.

If she decides to move to the next opening phase, Ellsworth County could follow or stay with the stricter restrictions, Ehrlich said.

The state credits the county with two positive COVID-19 tests; however, the second test came from a former resident who hasn’t lived here for sometime.

“My hope is we will be able to move into Phase 2 with Gov. Kelly. It’s all based on activity,” Ehrlich said.

Opening the swimming pool is addressed in the second phase. Mayor Mark Kennedy said even without the pandemic, it would be at least June 15 before the pool opens because of the renovation of a nearby water tower.

If the pool opens, Ehrlich said the city will still have to follow social distancing and other virus-related rules.

Recreation director Ronnie Tenbrink said he is prepared; however, an additional employee might be required to make sure the rules are followed.

As for Cowtown Days, Ehrlich, who with county health officer Dr. Ronald Whitmer, oversees Ellsworth County’s response to the coronavirus pandemic, said she is nervous about an event that draws so many visitors into the county from so many other places.

Ehrlich said she would probably know more this week after a group meets to discuss future plans.

Also Monday, council members moved ahead with the new runway project at the municipal airport.

The council accepted a low bid of $6.9 million from Koss Construction, one of six companies to participate in a May 6 bid letting. Brad Waller of Benesch Engineers said his firm estimated the cost to be $8.3 million prior to the meeting.

The project is 100 percent funded by the FAA, which must approve the council’s action. Waller said construction could start at the end of July or early August up to as late as spring 2021, depending on weather.

Council members also approved the scope of work, which includes the runway, a taxiway and lighting.

Waller said he would present regular airport updates to the council so members could follow the project’s progress.

On another issue, city attorney Patrick Hoffman said he has permission from the out-of-state owner of the old Ellsworth County Hospital to ask the Kansas Department of Health and Environment for an environmental assessment of the property. The building has been vacant since 1999.