Town Hall Set for Businesses Impacted by COVID-19

Palm Springs businesses impacted by COVID-19 are invited to join Mayor Geoff Kors and Assemblyman Chad Mayes for a special virtual “Palm Springs Town Hall” at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, May 5.

The Palm Springs Chamber of Commerce and the Inland Empire Small Business Development Center are hosting the event.

Anyone interested in participating can register by clicking here or by visiting “In the Spotlight” on the front page by clicking here.

The virtual Town Hall will include information regarding the following topics:

• Business survival and recovery planning.
• Information for local restaurateurs about how to sign up and participate in Riverside County’s new senior meal program.
• Business loss insurance and claim information.

“The past couple of months navigating through the COVID-19 pandemic have been incredibly trying and stressful for our local businesses,” said Chamber CEO Nona Watson, “Our goal is to continue to provide helpful resources and information that can make a tangible difference to businesses struggling during these unprecedented times. We encourage anyone who needs assistance to register (for the town hall) and
get informed.”

The Palm Springs City Council during a two-hour emergency meeting on March 17, directed City Manager David H. Ready to order the closure of every nonessential business.

The order was modeled after the one the city and county of San Francisco issued.

The so-called “essential businesses” in San Francisco include healthcare operations; grocery stores, certified farmers’ markets and food banks; businesses that provide food, shelter and social services for lower-income people; newspapers, television, radio and other media services; gas stations and auto supply and repair shops; banks; hardware stores, and other services.

Since March 17 dine-in service at restaurants have not been allowed, although takeout and delivery have remained options.