Scioto County Commissioner Bryan Davis says the decision to shut down all bars and restaurants in Ohio indefinitely is “unprecedented” but that he and other officials are ready to take action to make sure Scioto County workers affected by the closings get the help they need.
“Our concern, of course, is for the owners and workers of the establishments affected. The Department of Job & Family Services will be meeting with state officials tomorrow morning to determine the next steps to help those affected and we are working to provide more information regarding quick and immediate access to unemployment benefits for those displaced.” Davis said he believes that federal dollars will be coming soon to help assist business owners.
The order from the Ohio Department of Health shut down all bars and restaurants indefinitely but does allow for both takeout and delivery from restaurants.
Davis said, “We know of efforts by several restaurants to go to curbside/take out/drive-thru options and we hope our citizens will continue to patronize these establishments – but eat at home – to keep them open and provide much-needed jobs at this time.”
Davis said that while there are no confirmed cases of COVID-19 yet in Scioto County, it was important to understand that the shutdown is an attempt to slow the spread of the pandemic in the community. “Everyone should maintain calm and do their part to mitigate exposure to themselves or others. With God’s help, we will get through this.”