Coronavirus (COVID-19) Update
March 16, 2020
The Lakeview Chamber of Commerce is limiting its office operations effective Monday, March 16 as a precaution due to the current Coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak. Throughout the duration of this public health event, the best way to get in touch with us is to email info@lakeviewchamber.com or call (773) 472-7171, and stay tuned to our website and social media accounts for the latest updates.
COVID-19 Resources for Lakeview Businesses
For more information and resources for local businesses, visit our Coronavirus (COVID-19) Resource Page at www.lakeviewchamber.com/COVID19. We plan to update this page frequently, so check back often for the latest information.
City of Chicago Issues Guidance and Supports for COVID-19 Restrictions on Restaurant Dining and Taverns
Mayor Lori E. Lightfoot and Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection (BACP) Commissioner Rosa Escareno today issued guidance for restaurants and bars to comply with Governor Pritzker’s order to close taverns and restrict onsite consumption of food or beverage to help slow the spread of the Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19). Beginning at 9 p.m. tonight, March 16th and lasting through March 30th, all restaurants and taverns in the state of Illinois must cease their regular operations. Restaurants and bars in the City of Chicago are required to follow the following updated guidelines, with the City beginning any necessary enforcement measures at midnight tonight:
- The consumption of food or beverage is not permitted inside a restaurant or bar
- Congregation of any kind is not permitted inside or outside a restaurant or bar
- Drive-thru, delivery and carry out or curbside pick-up may continue, with the restaurant owner responsible to ensure social distancing policies are in place and followed.
For more information about this guidance, please consult the following resources from the State of Illinois and City of Chicago:
- March 16 press release issued by the City of Chicago
- FAQ document prepared by the City of Chicago
- Full text of the Executive Order by Illinois Gov. Pritzker
State of Illinois Asking for Feedback re: Small Business Administration Loans For Businesses Substantially Impacted by Coronavirus
The Small Business Administration (SBA) has received authorization to provide small business assistance through the Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program for businesses affected by the coronavirus. This program can provide low interest loans of up to $2 Million to businesses and private non-profits. The Lakeview Chamber of Commerce is partnering with the Small Business Advocacy Council to advocate for businesses experiencing economic interruption during this crisis, and it is our understanding the SBA is working with the State of Illinois to support their efforts to submit the Governor’s request for a declaration. To accomplish this, the state is identifying businesses that have experienced substantial economic injury. This step is important as a county can only qualify if they either, have an identified business that has suffered economic injury, or the county is contiguous to a declared county. Once the state has pulled together its request, it goes to SBA for review. Once a disaster is declared, the EIDL becomes available for businesses located in declared counties.
Please take two minutes to complete the following survey to assist in efforts by the State of Illinois to secure important SBA funding for small businesses in Chicago: https://form.jotform.com/200717156003039.
Our mailing address is:
Lakeview Chamber of Commerce
Chicago, IL 60613