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2020/05/08 - Walter's Blog: Restore Illinois

Democracy on the Front Lines
City Administrator’s Blog
Walter Denton
 

Just like everyone else during the COVID-19 crisis, we are taking things one day at a time. Each day, there seems to be new cases, news deaths, new information, new federal guidelines, new state guidelines.

City services are essential functions and our employees are adapting to social distancing, face masks, teleworking, and frequent disinfection. Our EMS, Police, and Fire first responders have worked tirelessly in the face of COVID-19 with increased safety measures. Public Works and Parks workers continue maintain our infrastructure and open spaces. Building inspectors are still ensuring safe construction practices.

However, Governor Pritzker recently released the “Restore Illinois” re-opening plan that provides some guidance on how we will proceed. The plan defines five phases:

Restore Illinois

 

While we are currently in Phase 2, we are making plans for Phases 3 and 4:

  • Community Development: People will not go to businesses and restaurants unless they feel safe. What can we do to help our residents feel safe and make our businesses successful? How can we support community events that meet the safety guidelines and are safe for our residents?
  • Parks & Recreation: We are working on modified summer camps that will still be fun and keep kids safe. In addition, we are seeking clarification on when we can open the Community Pool and resume sports leagues and tournaments.
  • Public Library: Phase 3 will likely allow a partial opening for the Library. This will include face mask requirements, limited capacity, and frequent cleaning of equipment and surfaces. The Summer Reading Program, however, will be all virtual.
  • City Hall: The building has been closed to the public, but we have been able to able to provide services to residents by computer and phone. Re-opening City Hall will include distancing restrictions and face mask requirements. City Council meetings will likely continue to be virtual while Phase 3 limits gatherings to 10 people. In-person meetings may resume when we move to Phase 4.

Even in these extraordinary circumstances, I believe that City employees have maintained excellent services to residents. We have even been forced to embrace new technologies that we may not have otherwise considered. As we re-open, I am confident that we will incorporate some of these new practices and we will be better than before COVID-19.