By Heart of Illinois ABC
NORMAL – Wednesday, the Normal Town Council voted to extend both emergency COVID-19 orders until Jan. 1.
“I’m worried that if we do not do this, and our rate rises, all businesses in our community will suffer, not just bars and restaurants,” Mayor Chris Koos said.
These orders were put in place Friday by Mayor Koos, in an effort to slow the spread of COVID-19. The first ordinance states large gatherings at or around Illinois State University must be limited to ten people. The second says bars and restaurants are not allowed to serve customers if they are not seated.
Both ordinances passed on a 6-1 vote, with Stan Nord the lone dissenter. The council can terminate the orders if COVID-19 numbers improve.
“We need to take meaningful action that can help to slow this, or we’re going backwards,” council member Kevin McCarthy said.
These orders will be enforced by normal police, the fire department, and ISU Police too–with fines up to $750, however, Mayor Koos says that is not their intention.
“In terms of enforcement, we look at it as more of an opportunity to do the right thing, instead of being the bad guys and write tickets,” Mayor Koos said.
One Illinois State professor says he agrees with the council and thinks they could even take orders a step further.
“Close down bars and indoor dining, urge the ISU administration to close residence halls. Have all off-campus students shelter in place for two weeks, and communicate to the people of the town that we are in crisis, and that the only way out is to take serious action,” Dr. Brian Rejack said.
Mayor Koos explained the council can vote to rescind the orders if the current situation improves.
Heart of Illinois ABC can be reached at [email protected].
