SPEARFISH, SD – The business closures ordered by the emergency ordinance, enacted by the Spearfish City Council to slow the community spread of COVID-19, will expire at 11:59 p.m. April 29.
Businesses can choose to open and operate April 30 and are encouraged to follow Gov. Kristi Noem’s executive order and South Dakota Back to Normal Plan.
The executive order and plan ask “enclosed retail businesses that promote public gatherings” to resume operations in a manner that allows for reasonable physical distancing, good hygiene, and appropriate sanitation, to consider restricting occupancy, and to continue innovating in this uncertain environment.
The Spearfish City Council Wednesday approved Resolution 2020-09, which provides further guidance and best practices for business owners going forward. The resolution lasts through July 31, unless the Council chooses to repeal at an earlier date.
The City of Spearfish created a “Recommended Best Practices When Re-Opening Post-COVID-19-Related Closures” digital guidebook, as well as a “Roadmap for Re-Opening the City of Spearfish,” to assist business owners and citizens going forward.
The City Council thanked business owners for their efforts during the pandemic and encouraged them to continue to take care of their employees and customers by following best-practice recommendations.
Citizens are urged to continue practicing all recommended CDC guidelines everywhere, including their necessary trips to businesses, outside in public open spaces, at home, etc.
These recommendations include:
– Avoid groups of 10 or more people;
– Practice social distancing, keeping at least 6 feet away from others;
– Avoid non-essential travel;
– Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
– Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
– Stay home when you are sick.
– Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
– Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.
– Clean and disinfect frequently-touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipes.
– Cover your mouth and nose with a cloth face cover when around others in public.
The City continues to get the latest information from health care professionals at the local, state, national, and international level and has launched the webpage, https://www.cityofspearfish.com/723/COVID-19, to provide resources to citizens, and on that site are links to those seeking reemployment assistance, small business disaster loans, tax relief, etc.
People in need of assistance or looking to assist those in need may also fill out forms to get connected to various resources, organizations, agencies, etc.
The City’s public facilities including City Hall, the Spearfish Recreation Center, Grace Balloch Memorial Library, Hudson Hall, etc., are closed to the public until further notice. Services remain available by calling the appropriate departments.
The library is offering pick-up services to patrons who place items on hold via their online account or by calling the library at 642-1330. Wifi is available outside of the building, and limited essential computer services are available by appointment.
City parks and rec paths remain open. Users of the parks and rec path should practice social distancing when outside enjoying the public spaces.
