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As you may have heard by now, this morning Governor Hogan announced multiple executive orders including one to close public access to all restaurants, bars, gyms, and movie theaters starting at 5 PM. Other updates regarding this evolving situation are below.
We’re continuing our work at the County Council, but it isn’t business as usual. Our building is closed to public access and while full Council deliberations continue, many non-essential committee sessions have been postponed. Right now, the County’s primary goal is to continue to protect the health and safety of our residents.
This is an uncertain time. While we do not know how long the state orders will last, we do know how to lessen the impact of the Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) in our communities by following the state's guidance, practicing social distancing, and staying home as much as is possible. We will continue to send out information as the situation evolves.
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Openings and Closings: Banks, gas stations, pharmacies, and grocery stores will remain open. For restaurants, takeout, delivery, and drive thru service are expected to be available.
- On public gatherings: Previously, events with more than 250 people were cancelled. The new limit is 50 people.
- Halting Evictions and Public Utility Shutoffs: The Governor prohibited any utility companies from charging late fees or shutting off service to customers during this time due to the financial difficulties residents may be facing. Similarly, tenants will not be evicted during the emergency.
- Hospitals: The State is working to re-open closed hospitals to help accommodate an influx of possible future cases of COVID-19 patients.
- Meals for Students in Need: MCPS has a list of 20 sites where students can pick up a meal. Please click here for more information.
There is essential work we must continue at the Council, starting with the Fiscal Year 2021 Operating Budget. The County Executive released his recommended budget today, as required by the County Charter.
We are in an unprecedented public health emergency with deep economic uncertainty and anxiety for families and businesses. Montgomery County residents rightfully expect us to focus their tax dollars on protecting public health and safety and prioritizing core government services. That’s why I joined seven of my colleagues to send a strong message: “This is a time for cautious decision-making, not property tax increases.”
We must meet the moment. But we also must be prepared to meet the social and economic challenges we’ll face once we get through this current crisis. As county leaders, we are prepared to provide the fiscal leadership that our residents deserve during these trying times and throughout this difficult budget process. Please see our full statement here.
Small business owners don’t just employ our neighbors, loved ones, and friends. They are our neighbors, loved ones, and friends. In this unprecedented moment, they need our support. It’s important for our County’s quality of life and ability to maintain essential services that we find appropriate ways to patronize these businesses as our daily routines change in order to slow the spread of COVID-19.
Use online meal ordering and find restaurants and eateries that are offering delivery or take out. Purchase gift certificates from hair and nail salons, yoga studios, and other service businesses to use later.
If you're a business owner in need of information on U.S. Small Business Administration low-interest loans or have questions about the Governor's Executive Order, go to the Maryland Department of Commerce's webpage or reach out to secretary.commerce@maryland.gov. There is also information on employer and worker assistance programs and some tax and licensing relief measures that have already been put into place.
If you're in need of food assistance, see the Montgomery County Food Council's Resource Directory, which includes information on the location, hours, and eligibility guidelines of more than 100 sites in Montgomery County where residents can access food and benefits application assistance.
This will be a challenging time for our neighbors and local businesses in the weeks and months to come. Let's work together, look out for one another, and we'll get through this as one community.
Our next Friday With Friedson, set for Friday, March 20th at Java Nation, is postponed. Please look out for more details soon on a new date for this event.
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