I have businesses that have one customer and one employee during interactions, and they can social distance in a highly controlled environment and they still can’t function. It’s not common sense and it’s unnecessarily destroying financial health. We must be concerned, careful and smart about COVID-19 but it is absolutely close-minded for the Governor to continue straight shutdowns without putting common sense into the equation.
There are constant questions surrounding how area small businesses can prepare to safely serve our communities again. It’s because of those questions, and the lack of faith being extended to our small business owners and the governor’s unwillingness to listen, that I contacted our township officials and area small businesses. I asked them directly to provide bullet-pointed, safety operation plans on how they would handle opening their doors again during this health crisis. I want the governor to see firsthand what type of businesses he is turning his back on without consideration. Big box stores are continuing to gain revenue while small businesses, which can offer the similar services, are shuttered and so close to never opening their doors again. I have a flooring company that can’t sell tile, but Home Depot and Lowes can? Our small businesses and their employees need a government that works smart and they continue to have my support.
Thank you to Delaware Water Gap Borough, Barrett, Hamilton and especially Middle Smithfield townships for their quick response to my time-sensitive request for this information within a short period.