Publisher’s Note: Thanks to our friends at VtDigger for this story. Details below. Farmer’s Markets will reopen on May 1 under “guidelines” still being drafted. Baby steps.

Speaking at the start of his regular press conference, Scott said that two people would be allowed to return to work at the offices of low-contact professional services, like realtors, appraisers, municipal clerks and attorneys.

Scott also said that property management and construction firms could begin operating as two-person crews. In all cases, workers must continue remaining 6 feet from anyone, wash hands regularly and wear face masks in public. 

Those initial economic opening measures, being orchestrated by the Agency of Commerce and Community Development, will begin on Monday, April 20. 

Most Vermonters, Scott said, should “expect telecommuting and remote work to stay in place for the foreseeable future, because we still need to reduce contact to contain the spread of this virus.”

Scott also said that garden and construction supply stores will be allowed to reopen next week, but only with phone and online ordering, curbside pickup, and minimum staffing. 

Farmers markets will be allowed to reopen on May 1, following guidance currently being drafted by the Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets, Scott said. 

“I realize that this is a small step forward, but I believe it’s the right balance to support all our public health goals,” Scott said. “As we have seen along the way, I know there are many who will think we are moving too quickly, and others who believe we should flip the switch and open the economy right now, but this is a carefully developed approach, with the health of Vermonters as a No. 1 priority.”