As part of Benton City’s reopening, certain restrictions on outdoor dining were lifted to support the community and small businesses. | Pixabay
As part of Benton City’s reopening, certain restrictions on outdoor dining were lifted to support the community and small businesses. | Pixabay
Benton is looking forward to reopening, the city's top official said in a letter sent to residents, that also addressed matters related to the community and small businesses during "a new normal."
Mayor Fred Kondritz sent the letter a few days before the city reopened on May 29, which was posted on the Benton Facebook page.
"I am pleased to see the forward progression of re-opening Illinois and allowing the public to slowly begin our journey to a 'new normal,'" Kondritz said in the letter. "I, for one, am excited to see May 29 arrive and our small businesses that have been impacted from COVID-19 to be able to officially open their doors once again."
City restaurants have since seen related restrictions, including lifting restraints, that prohibit outdoor seating.
Other cities nearby also started relaxing restrictions and reopening approximately the same time as Benton, the letter states. But Kondritz emphasized that this didn't mean Illinois was returning to normal and residents should still be careful.
''Please note that these relaxed standards do not mean that the law enforcement (whether City, County or State) will not enforce reckless endangerment and/or negligence as what was considered inappropriate before COVID-19," Kondritz said in the letter. "The City cannot condone behavior of this type."
He also encouraged businesses to make sure they are protected from any liabilities.
"It is also recommended that any business serving alcohol outside of a business that may have adopted new operating methods to check with your respective parties such as an insurance carrier to ensure proper coverage of liability for your protection," Kondritz said in the letter.
The city wants to support small businesses, but these businesses and restaurants need to make sure they follow all guidelines in the phased reopening.
"These relaxed restrictions will remain in effect until restaurants and businesses are able to return to normal operations, which I, the City and our residents hope is in the near future," Kondritz said in the letter.
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