The City of Chicago’s Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection (BACP) and Chicago Department of Public Health (CDPH) hosted a conference call with government officials and business operators today. The call topic was on the recent increase in COVID-19 positivity test rates and current regulations for bars, restaurants, and multi-unit residences.
Below is a recap of the meeting:
Who Attended:
- The call was hosted by Mayor Lori Lightfoot, Deputy Mayor Samir Mayekar, senior officials from the CDPH and BACP
- Over 900 attendees were on call
Recent Increase in Positive COVID-19 Tests:
- Positive test results are up, particularly among young adults
- This pattern mirrors a spike in COVID cases that took place in October 2020
- Major metrics/results are up by 15% over the previous week
City of Chicago Restrictions Update:
- Restaurants, bars, and common areas in residential buildings have been identified as vectors for this spread
- The City is trying to avoid reimposing previous restrictions and limitations
- Signage and messaging communicating regulations/expectations are strongly recommended
- 28 citations were issued to businesses last weekend, including fines and temporary closures
- Violations included over-capacity, but most were gatherings of standing, unmasked attendees – patrons expected to be seated when eating or drinking
- In addition to BACP, reps from Buildings, police, and fire will respond to violation complaints
- The building owner/manager should call 911 if third-party hosts are refusing to comply with regulations
- CDPH verified that engineers, property managers, and cleaning staff are a part of vaccine Phase 1c
Questions?
Contact BACP at [email protected]
As always, if you “See Something, Say Something.” For life-threatening emergencies, call 911. To report suspicious activity, call 855-RPRT-2-S4 (855-777-8274).