EAST PEORIA, Ill. — The Mayor of East Peoria, John Kahl, announced Friday that the city is moving forward with a plan to reopen.
“We are committed to reopening our community in a measured, reasonable approach and have therefore made the decision to begin implementing phase one of the Tri-County Phased Reopening Plan beginning May 1, 2020 within East Peoria Corporate limits,” Kahl said.
The plan allows for any individual or business that wants to reopen may do so with still taking steps for health measures and are consistent with the plan.
“Actions that are contrary to the Tri-County Phased Reopening Plan are discouraged by the city, but formal enforcement measures will be taken only if authority do so is made clear by decision of a court,” Kahl said.
Businesses such as retailers, shopping centers, auto dealerships, distribution centers, nursery/garden shops, lawn and garden centers, marinas, parks, lakes, golf courses, campgrounds, and outdoor recreational areas can reopen with precautions.
Groups of 10 should still be avoided and social distancing guidelines maintained.
Personal care facilities such as salons, barber shops, spas, and dog groomers may reopen but use safe health measures such as reconstructing the space to enable social distancing. Also, employees shall be required to wear face masks while close to each other. Surfaces must be cleaned between clients.
Indoor recreational facilities may reopen also with some mitigation measures such as re-configuring or restricting space to allow individuals to be apart and social distance. Equipment must be cleaned between users.
As for restaurants and bakeries, they may continue to prepare and serve food for curbside pickup or delivery.
“Consequently, no city official, including police officers, will take any step to discourage anyone from reopening or taking any action consistent with the Tri-County Phased Reopening Plan,” Kahl said.
Businesses that have a state license must consult with the licence authority.
“And, if they choose, their private legal counsel concerning the consequences of taking any action inconsistent with the governor’s latest order,” Kahl said.
The annual Fourth of July event on the riverfront, Red, White, and Boom, has been postponed, and Kahl said the city can not spend money towards the event.
“Not to mention, I think it’s pretty clear, there’s going to be no gathering of that size Fourth of July anywhere,” Kahl said.
Kahl said that the plan is subject to change depending on further developments.
“We encourage residents to exercise personal responsibility, to remain respectful and to remain supportive as we seek to revitalize our economy,” Kahl said.
