ADAMS COUNTY TOGETHER LAUNCHES “ONE STOP SHOP” WEBSITE

Last week Mayor Kyle More announced the formation of Adams County Together, a partner task force designed to coordinate, align and maximize the community’s response to the economic impact of the COVID-19 virus. Today, the task force has launched a website www.adamscountytogether.com as a resource for the community.

The website, led by Great River Economic Development Foundation, Quincy Area Chamber of Commerce and The District is a place for residents, businesses, and non-profits to seek information as they navigate the numerous federal, state, and local assistance programs.

“We have never been involved in a pandemic during my lifetime,” states Chamber executive director, Latonya Brock. “There is so much information coming towards our community from Federal, State, and City levels; we wanted to ensure these resources could be located in one central place. The website will help businesses and individuals find vital information to assist them in this process.”

Through the website individuals, businesses and non-profits can access direct links on relief assistance, grant funds and loan programs. Also available is guidance and frequently asked questions regarding the “stay at home order,” links to donate to local charities who are aiding in the relief effort, and even information on how each resident can help support the Adams County community.

Quincy Mayor Kyle Moore said, “The goal of Adams County Together is to make it a little easier for our residents, businesses and non-profits to help navigate the many programs available to them. We know families are wondering where they will get their next meal, businesses who are doing everything they can to keep their doors open and non-profits who are delivering essential services to our community with little to no funding coming in. We hope they will use this page as a resource to get every dollar available to them.”

“Our small businesses and residents wanted help to navigate the huge quantity of information,” agreed Bruce Guthrie, executive director of The District. “Community leaders and organizations came together to create one place for businesses of all sizes to go. This will give them every opportunity to find their way through this very challenging time.”

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Questions or follow up appointments can be made by calling the Mayor’s office at 217-228-4545.

In order to better serve the community and find out what is needed GREDF, the Chamber and The District have put together a brief survey to help us quantify and document the impact that COVID 19 has on the business community. The survey can easily be filled out online by the link below or attached is a file with the form you can print and send back to:

Essential Businesses & Operations

Executive Order 20-10 requires all non-essential businesses and operations to cease all activities except for minimum basic operations. Non-essential businesses may also continue operations consisting exclusively of employees or contractors working from home. 

CLICK For Essential Business & Operations Check List from DCEO

 What businesses and operations are considered essential? 

My business falls within one of the categories. Can I require my employees come to work? 

 The intent of the EO is to ensure that the maximum number of people self-isolate in their places of residence. Even essential businesses and operations should promote telecommuting whenever possible. 

 Consider alternating work schedules to minimize the number of employees in the office at the same time. 

 To the greatest extent feasible, essential businesses and operations shall comply with social distancing requirements, including maintaining six-foot foot social distancing for both employees and members of the public at all times. They must also take the following practice measures wherever possible: o Designating with signage, tape, or by other means six-foot spacing for employees and customers in line to maintain appropriate distance; 

o Having hand sanitizer and sanitizing products readily available for employees and customers; 

o Implementing separate operating hours for elderly and vulnerable customers; 

o Posting online whether a facility is open and how best to reach the facility and continue services by phone or remotely. 

I’m not sure if my business falls within one of those categories 

Please read the Executive Order as it provides much more information of what businesses and operations are essential. If after the order you still have questions, provide the following information: 

 What general industry are you in? 

 What products do you make/what services do you perform? o Where/when do those products/services go into the stream of commerce? 

o Which specific medical or other essential business do you supply products to? 

o Is there a pending order or a routine schedule for shipments? 

 Can any of your business functions be performed remotely? 

 How many employees do you have? o Can your employees work remotely? 

o If some or all of the employees must be at the place of business, can operations be modified so that employees work in shifts (one week at home; one week at the place of business)? 

 What is the physical layout of the facility where people work? o How will you be able to ensure proper distancing? 

o Do you have hand sanitizer available? 

o Are restrooms cleaned frequently and stocked with soap? 

o Where do employees eat? Is that cleaned frequently and is there room to social distance? 

 Explain why you believe your business falls within one of the essential business categories. 

My business is not considered an “Essential Business,” does this order require the business to shut down my facility? 

 You and your employees are allowed to perform “Minimum Basic Operations” at your work place, so long as employees maintain a distance of six feet from one another to the greatest extent feasible. Minimum Basic Operations include maintaining the value of inventory, payroll, ensuring security, and ensuring that employees can work remotely. Other than to maintain “Minimum Basic Operations,” employees can only work remotely from their residences. 

My technology company provides products and services that the public needs to access critical services. Is my company being completely shut down? 

 No. However, most employees of such companies will need to work from home. Anyone who must work onsite to maintain “Essential Infrastructure” for the community or to maintain “Minimum Basic Operations” as described in the Order may continue to work in the workplace so long as they are maintaining social distancing. 

Are companies that sell only CDB products and/or nutritional supplements, but not medicine or other medications not requiring a prescription, considered essential businesses? 

 No. Companies that only sell these products do not fall within Section 12(a) of the Executive Order. 

Can people who reside in Illinois but perform manufacturing or supply chain work outside the state (where there is no such order in place) be able to travel to their jobs? 

 Yes. This order covers businesses in Illinois and their operations; it does not cover businesses that are located outside of Illinois. 

Can a retail store have one person come in on a daily basis to pack up online orders and take them to the post office? 

 Yes. Maintaining inventory is considered a minimum basic operation that non-essential businesses can continue to perform. 

Can a personal trainer have exercise training sessions with 5 or fewer people? 

 No. Professional services such as a personal trainer is not considered essential business under the restrictions contained in the executive order. 

Would manufacturers that produce products for the transportation and construction sectors qualify under Sec. 12(t) of Essential Businesses? (e.g. supply products or parts for street/highway signs and construction sites) 

 Depends. Additional questions need to be answered such as: what is the role that the product plays in the agricultural supply chain and the demand for said product during the period of time subject to the executive order? 

Can golf courses stay open? 

 No; recreational sports businesses including golf courses are not considered essential businesses under the executive order. 

Are car dealerships considered essential businesses? 

 Car dealerships can remain open for repair services. They can also remain open for car sales on an appointment-only basis. Showrooms must remain closed. 

Can residential and commercial lawn service remain open? 

 Yes. Many landscape projects will fit under an exemption such as construction, agriculture, or public works. Outdoor landscape projects generally will provide for good social distancing that poses little risk of transmission, but it still is important to ensure the ability to wash or sanitize hands and take other precautions. 

Is residential remodeling an essential business? 

 Generally yes, residential remodeling falls within Section 9 of the Executive Order. However, residential remodeling companies must ensure social distancing compliance during their work. 

On Friday, March 20^th, Governor Pritzker issued Executive Order 2020-10 requiring all Illinoisans to stay in their homes to prevent the further spread of COVID-19. The order prohibits things like visiting the homes of friends and holding gatherings of any size and closes all nonessential establishments, including most retail, recreation and entertainment businesses. It does NOT prohibit essential activities like going to the grocery store, receiving medical care, or taking your pet for a walk. For more information on what this order means for you, please see below.

When does the order take effect?

The order will take effect Saturday, March 21^st at 5pm CST.

Where does the Stay at Home order apply?

The Governor’s executive order includes the entire state. Unless you work for an essential business or are doing an essential activity, you should stay home.

Is this mandatory or just guidance?

This order is mandatory. To help prevent the further spread of COVID-19 in Illinois and protect our friends, neighbors, and vulnerable populations, please stay home.

How will this order be enforced?

Staying home is critical to reducing the spread of COVID-19 in your community. The Illinois State Police will work with local law enforcement to enforce this order but adhering to the order will save lives and it is the responsibility of every Illinoisan to do their part.

Will the Illinois National Guard be enforcing this order?

No. The Illinois National Guard will be supporting logistics, transportation, and medical response efforts. The Guard will not be enforcing this order.

I work in an essential service. How will the police know I’m allowed to be outside my house?

Law enforcement officials will not stop residents who are on their way to or from work or who are out for necessities like going to the pharmacy or getting groceries, or just taking a walk. Illinoisans should abstain from all nonessential activities. Adhering to the order will save lives and it is the responsibility of every Illinoisan to do their part.

Will grocery stores be open?

Yes, essential services will still be operational including, but not limited to:

• Grocery stores
• Gas stations
• Pharmacies
• Police stations
• Fire stations
• Hospitals, clinics and healthcare operations
• Garbage/sanitation
• Public transportation
• Public benefits (i.e. SNAP, Medicaid) hotlines
• A full list can be found in the executive order at coronavirus.illinois.gov

How can I get medical care if I need it?

If you are feeling sick, call your doctor, a nurse hotline, any telehealth hotline set up specifically for COVID-19 (check with your insurance company) or an urgent care center. Do not go to an emergency room unless necessary. Nonessential medical care like eye exams and teeth-cleaning should be postponed. When possible, healthcare visits should be done remotely. Contact your healthcare provider to see what tele-health services they provide.

What is the guidance for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities?

State Operated Developmental Centers, Intermediate Care Facilities for Individuals with Developmental Disabilities and Community Integrated Living Arrangements will continue to provide care. All in-home direct care staff are considered essential staff and should continue to support individuals in the home setting.

If you have any specific questions about your support and services, please reach out to your provider or Individual Service Coordination (ISC) Agency.  To receive updated information on DDD services, please sign up for our email database, or to update your contact and service information, please visit www.DDD.Illinois.gov .

What if I still have to go to work?

Unless your work is an essential function (i.e. healthcare provider, grocery store clerk, first responder), you should stay home. If you have been designated essential by your employer, you should continue to go to work and practice social distancing.

What if I think my business should be closed but I’m still being asked to operate?

Essential businesses will remain open during the Stay at Home order to provide services that are vital to the lives of Illinoisans. Those businesses include, but are not limited to, pharmacies, certain government offices, day care centers that provide care for the children of essential employees, and restaurants providing take-out meals. If you work for an essential business, you should continue to practice social distancing and should stay at home outside of work hours. If you believe your business is nonessential but are still being asked to show up to work, you may discuss with your employer.

Can I order food/groceries?

Yes, grocery delivery will be available as well as meal-delivery, drive through, and take-out options.

A certain service is essential for me, but the Governor didn’t include it, what do I do?

The Stay at Home order was issued to protect the health, safety and well-being of Illinoisans. While some businesses like fitness centers and salons will be closed, essential services will always be available. For a full list of businesses that will still operate during the order, visit coronavirus.illinois.gov.

Will public transportation and ridesharing be available?

Public transportation and ridesharing should be used for essential travel only. When possible, walk or drive yourself.

Will roads in Illinois be closed?

No, the roads will not be closed in Illinois. You should only travel if it is essential to your work or health.

Can I take a flight out of state? 

Planes and any other form of travel should only be used for essential purposes.

What if my home is not a safe environment?

If it is not safe for you to remain home, you are able and urged to find another safe place to stay during this order.  Please reach out so we can help. You may call the domestic violence hotline at 1-877-863-6338 or contact your local law enforcement.

What about homeless people who can’t stay at home?

The administration wants to protect the health and safety of all Illinoisans, regardless of where they live. State agencies are partnering with community organizations to provide funding and resources to ensure our homeless population has safe shelter.

Can I visit friends and family?

For your safety, as well as the safety of those in your community, you should remain at home to help fight the spread of COVID-19. You may visit family members who need medical or other essential assistance, such as ensuring an adequate supply of food.

What about my pet?

You are allowed to walk your dog and seek medical care for your pet should they require it. Be sure to practice social distancing while out on walks, maintaining at least 6 feet from other neighbors and their pets.

Does the Stay at Home order mean I can’t take my kids to the park?
State parks will be closed during the Stay at Home order. Families will still be able to go outside and take a walk, run, or bike rid but should continue to practice social distancing by remaining 6 feet away from other people.  Playgrounds are closed because they pose a high risk of increasing transmission.

What is the difference between the Stay at Home order and social distancing?

Social distancing is an important first step in preventing the spread of a disease like COVID-19 that allows people to go about their daily activities while taking extra health and safety precautions. The Stay at Home order requires people to remain in their homes unless they have an essential job or are doing an essential task like going to the grocery store or walking a pet.

Can I leave home to go to religious services?
Large gatherings, such as church services, will be cancelled to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

Can I leave home to exercise?
Yes. Outdoor exercise like running or taking a walk is perfectly acceptable; however, exercise gyms, fitness centers and associated facilities will be closed to reduce the spread of coronavirus. While exercising outside, you should still practice social distancing by running or walking at least six feet away from other people.

Can I pick up meals being provided by my child’s school?

Yes. Schools that provide free food services to students will continue on a pick-up and take-home basis. However, if you are experiencing symptoms or are currently in isolation, you should stay at home and follow the guidelines provided by your physician.

Can I go out to do laundry?

Yes.  Laundromats, dry cleaners and laundry service providers are considered essential businesses that will remain open.  However, if you are experiencing symptoms or are currently in isolation, you should stay at home and follow the guidelines provide by your physician.

Can I take my child to day care?

If you are considered an essential worker under the Order, you can take your child to a day care that is licensed on an emergency basis for the purpose of childcare for essential workers.  Licensed day care homes for up to 12 children will be closed but may reopen as an unlicensed day care home for up to 6 children.

Click to View Partner Letter

Dear Friends,

Our community and local businesses are at the heart of everything we do. COVID-19 continues to have an increased significant impact on communities across the country. Businesses and individuals are being faced with tough and costly decisions, attempting to balance caution with economic stability.

It’s a difficult time for everyone where good information, knowledge, solidarity and support are paramount. As you have no doubt heard from many in our business community, your health is a top priority, and businesses have taken various steps, including but not limited to some of the following:

• Increase cleanliness and sanitation practices,
• Work from home options when/where available,
• Crowd control or postponed/canceled events & activities,
• Take-out and delivery services, and so on.

For our customers, please take advantage of ways you are able to support local establishments by:

• Ordering take-out or delivery | there are both food and retail options available,
• Visiting your favorite retailers during off hours with less crowds,
• Supporting local businesses online or virtually if possible,

Local businesses are taking extra precautions to keep customers safe and they are open for business.

For our business community, we will continue to provide assistance and resources as they come available to be the most informed:

Businesses, please Fill Out This Form from Illinois Department of Commerce & Economic Opportunity to help the U.S. Small Business Administration economic injury requests.

• Centers for Disease Control & Prevention | COVID-19 Information+ Resources for Businesses & Employers
• Illinois Department of Public Health
• S. Small Business Administration | Guidance for Businesses & Employers to Plan and Respond to COVID-19Including: Economic Injury Disaster Loan Program and SBA Products & Resources
• Illinois Chamber Dispatch | Responding to the Coronavirus Outbreak: Five Questions & Answers for Employers
• Main Street America Network | CDC Resource, SBA Resources, Community Response Examples

As your partners, we are dedicated to working on ways to continue offering support.

In the meantime, continue to check on those friends and family at risk, take food or donate to local food pantries and make sure you have reliable information.

Please do not hesitate to reach out to any of our organizations.

Sincerely,

Marcel Wagner                              Latonya Brock                                 Bruce Guthrie

President                                        Executive Director                         Executive Director

Great River Economic                  Quincy Area                                    The District

Development Foundation           Chamber of Commerce