Business Roundtable – 8/4/2020 – 10:00am
MISSION: Success in two stages during the Covid-19:
1) Response to the immediate threat
2) Economic recovery when the threat diminishes.
Recap
- City of Monterey. Ordinance coming for outdoor seating in street right of way. Businesses will have to reimburse for some lost revenue but permitting will be free. Hospitality partners are encouraged to strictly follow guidance, particularly at this time. Wear masks unless consuming food or drinks.
- General Conversation: Norm GROOT, Executive Director - Monterey County Farm Bureau – “How do you assess your COVID-19 preparation plans, policies, and workflow to ensure maximum safety for your members, their employees and customers?” Safety protocols for agricultural industry were created and revised continually during the last 4 months. The industry employs around 45,000-50,000 workers in County. The actions taken by the industry are considered a model in the State. The problem lies in multi-generational crowded housing practices and temporary housing. While difficult to obtain at first, masks were distributed in large quantity (2.1 million to date.) Adding to the problem is that employers cannot mandate what people do outside of worksite. Farm labor contractors have followed guidelines and took initiative. See documents attached for your information.
- Hospitality & Tourism. Campaign focuses on how to be responsible while visiting the County and before traveling. Groups (especially smaller groups) will start to make a comeback in 2021-2022. Hiring a VP of Group Business Development. TOT increase (2%) is supported but on a phased-in timeline.
- Retail. Cannery Row sees slow times during week, and some resistance from guests to wear face covering masks in restaurants.
- State of California. Sacramento report. Stimulus package is on a “wait and see” mode, depending on the actions of the Federal government. Income tax collections were higher than projected. Legislature will adjourn at the end of the month.
- Health Care. Current report. Currently 9 patients at CHOMP. 23 staff members are in home quarantine after community exposure, not contracted in hospital. Dr. Packer predicts a long haul for the pandemic.
- Community Foundation. Small Business Relief Fund had small infusion of funds – granted to PG and Carmel businesses. Working to get a $1 million micro-loan grant for small businesses in Salinas. The COVID-19 fund sent $3 million to non-profit organizations. Looking for more support.
- Financial, SBA, Loans & Grants. Stay tuned for federal developments.
- Non-Profit sector. n/a
- Education. n/a
- Legal. n/a
- Transportation. n/a
- City of Seaside. City Council on Thursday 8/6/2020 will discuss a Seaside Business Loan Program directed at small businesses located within the City limits. Potential partnership with Chamber and CFMC.
- Monterey County Fairgrounds. n/a
Next teleconference will be held Tuesday 8/11/2020 at 10:00am
