(Matt Drzik/Beaver County Radio)

Many organizations have shut down to the coronavirus not just in Beaver County or Pennsylvania, but nationwide and worldwide as terms such as “wash your hands” and “social distancing” become as common as “hey” or “hello”. However, one organization in Beaver County hasn’t fully adopted that lingo or any reaction to the disease that prompted them, as the Shell Ethane Cracker Plant remains in operation.

This was announced as an issue at a press conference held outside the county courthouse late Wednesday morning. Heading the conference was Commissioner Chariman Dan Camp, and he made his thoughts on Shell clear:

 

Camp was joined by fellow commissioners Jack Manning and Tony Amadio, as well as fellow Beaver County state representatives Jim Marshall, Rob Matzie and Josh Kail. Camp called for Shell to follow orders from the CDC, stating that many workers are complaining about the current situation:

 

Rep. Marshall stated that the county has been calling the Governor’s office in Harrisburg and staying in touch with the state, in the hopes that more information can be known and that the state does what’s best for its citizens:

 

But the other two Commissioners seemed to be optimistic about Shell doing the right thing amidst the COVID-19 outbreak, with Commissioner Amadio saying “it’s just a matter of time.” Commissioner Manning said that he has confidence in Shell on making the right move for themselves and for the area:

 

Representative Kail did not speak at the Press Conference. The group jointly admitted that there was no timetable in regards to when–or if–Shell would directly respond to these suggestions by the CDC, state, or county. Stay tuned to Beaver County Radio as this story continues to develop.