Hi LSRCC Members and Local Businesses,

As the COVID-19 pandemic continues, we're here to keep you updated on policy changes and financial support opportunities.

IN THIS ISSUE
  • Updated Face Covering Policy
  • IL Sexual Harassment Prevention Training Policy
  • Chicago Together Now Fund Applications
  • Sidewalk Cafe Complaints & Reminders
Customers Must Wear Face Coverings When Interacting w/ Restaurant & Bar Staff

Governor JB Pritzker announced today that effective Wednesday, August 25 all bar and restaurant customers will be required to wear a face covering when interacting with staff.

Details were announced this morning during the Governor's press conference and shared via WGN-TV News.
Illinois Sexual Harassment Prevention Training Law

IL Public Act 101-0221 amended the Illinois Human Rights Act ("IHRA") requiring: Illinois employers to provide annual sexual harassment prevention training by December 31, 2020 and annually thereafter.

In order to ensure that your business is in compliance, the IL Department of Human Rights offers a free training model to small businesses.
Chicago Together Now Fund: Round 2 for Applications
The Chicago Together Now Fund has begun accepting applications for the second round of grants for Chicago businesses and non-profits. Businesses that continue to suffer from the impacts of COVID-19 are eligible to apply for operational grants of $4,000 each.

Applications are available now at chicago.gov/togethernow and the application will remain open until August 31 at 11:59pm.

To be eligible, businesses must have 100 or fewer employees and have experienced economic distress and loss due to COVID-19. Please visit the website for all eligibility criteria and for an FAQ.
Sidewalk Cafes: Complaints and Reminders
Several complaints on sidewalk cafes continue to be made to 311, local Aldermen, and our office. Although some of these reports are unfounded, we want to ensure that all of our businesses are adhering to City ordinances to ensure they do not receive an inspection. A few reminders:

  • Sidewalk Cafe Permit & Plan Must Be On Display
  • BYOB is Not Allowed in a Sidewalk Cafe
  • Cafes Must Include Railings, Barriers, and Seating Arrangements Consistent with Beautification / Landscaping Requirements
  • ADA Clearance of 6 Feet Must Be Maintained for Pedestrian Passage

Additional COVID-19 Adjustments include:
  • 75 Percent Permit Fee Reduction
  • Ability to Extend Sidewalk Cafes in Front of a Neighborhing Property
  • Expedited Permit Issuance Process

To review all requirements and/or to apply for a permit, click here.
Business Tip:
Have your hours changed during the pandemic? Customers are looking for your updated hours on search engines, your website, and social media. Be sure to update your hours of operation on Google, Facebook, etc.
Please see our COVID-19 Business Resources website for a comprehensive list of resources to aid your business during this time.

We're available and invested in your success. For further questions or individualized assistance, please email Katie Kraus, Membership Services Director, at katie@lincolnsquare.org.
 
Thank you! 
Two Neighborhoods. One Community. Working Together.
2611 W. Lawrence Avenue,
Chicago, IL 60625
(773) 728-3890