For the past three months, this nation has been consumed by the devastating impact of the Coronavirus. Coupled with the events of the past two weeks, following the tragic death of George Floyd, all of us have run the gamut of emotions from hope to despair; from fear and anxiety to confidence and courage; and from anger and hatred to love and kindness.
Like so many towns across the country, our small businesses are the heart of the community. In our current situation, I believe many of us are struggling with foundational principles of our nation: that governments derive their just powers from the consent of the governed; and that we are a government of laws, not of men. Toward this end, we are working with the state to obtain the necessary permission to fully open our local businesses; and to implement the countywide re-opening plan.
On June 15, non-essential retail businesses will be officially permitted to open their doors to customers; and restaurants will be allowed to offer outside dining. In conjunction with this, the administration is developing plans to offer broad latitude to these businesses to take advantage of outdoor spaces in order to most safely provide their goods and services.
Additionally, hair salons and barber shops are scheduled to reopen beginning June 22. Also, public and private pools will be permitted to reopen on June 22.
While we’re still waiting to learn when gyms and fitness centers can reopen, as with retail and dining establishments, we’re working on plans to provide these businesses with the ability to utilize outdoor spaces.
As we approach the middle of June, we must face the fact that students won’t be able to participate in traditional graduation ceremonies and other time-honored gatherings that celebrate their achievements. With that in mind, one of our local parents, Peggy Dunner, gave us a great idea; so next Wednesday, June 17, at 1:00 p.m., we’ll be driving through Sea Isle City with a fire engine and other city vehicles and stopping in front of the homes of any graduate who is signed-up for our special “Graduation Parade.”
Even though we are cancelling this year’s Skimmer Festival Seaside Vendors Market, we still wanted to offer everyone an enjoyable shopping experience during that same weekend. So, instead of our normal festival, we’re going to have a “Skimmer Sidewalk Sale” throughout town on June 20, which will give local business owners the opportunity to place their merchandise on tables and racks in front of their establishments; and allow them to welcome customers indoors where permissible.
Finally, I want to thank everyone in Sea Isle - our property owners and residents, our business owners, our city staff, and everyone who makes up this place we call home. How we respond in the most difficult of times is the measure of our character; and once again, the people of our community have shown that we are all one; and that together we will come out of this stronger than ever.
Sincerely,
Mayor Leonard Desiderio
