Following Mayor White’s proclamation declaring a state of emergency and Governor McMaster’s executive order yesterday, Greenville City Council today unanimously approved an emergency ordinance designed to help stop the spread of COVID-19 in our community.
The emergency ordinance:
- Follows the governor’s executive order on limited restaurant operations through March 31
- Closes bars that do not serve food, nightclubs and private event venues through March 31
- Defers payment for new and renewed business licenses without penalty (businesses must still file an online application)
- Clarifies that remote meeting provisions apply to all City boards and commissions
- Authorizes the City Manager to deny/revoke City-issued permits for events involving gatherings of more than 10 persons
- Establishes that, except for the restaurant and bar restrictions, the ordinance is in effect for 60 days, unless terminated sooner
The previous draft of the ordinance also included a request that the Greenville County Magistrate Court stay eviction proceedings; however, that action has since been taken by the court.
City Council also received an update from Prisma Health physician Dr. Eric Ossmann and reviewed measures other states and municipalities are taking. Additionally, City Council discussed the City’s efforts to support local businesses, including the installation of signs designating reserved parking for restaurant take-out service throughout downtown, and the Connecting Our Community webpage, which has already received submissions from 70 local businesses.
The City is continuing to answer questions and respond to concerns from residents and businesses by phone, email and social media. Citizens have also continued to utilize Greenville Cares, the City’s customer service call center, for information and resources.
Non-essential City personnel continue to work remotely, while first responders and other essential departments are operating with modifications. Regular updates, information and resources are available at https://emergency.greenvillesc.gov/. Citizens can continue to contact Greenville Cares at 232-2273 (CARE) or cares@greenvillesc.gov for assistance.