Resume McHenry County Task Force Releases Recommendations to Aid in Reopening of County

May 29, 2020 News Release

Resume McHenry County Task Force Releases Recommendations to Aid in Reopening of County

WOODSTOCK, Ill. – The Resume McHenry County Task Force, made up of local business, industry and health professionals, has released its findings and recommendations to guide the successful and safe reopening of the county’s businesses.

McHenry County Board Chairman Jack Franks created the Task Force in April to obtain input and advice from the local business community for reopening. The group has been meeting weekly over the last month to develop strategies that support businesses and protect both employees and customers. Businesses in McHenry County and across Illinois can reopen starting on Friday, May 29, as part of Phase 3 of the Restore Illinois plan.

The Task Force’s findings fall under six broad themes, which include: Safety, Metrics/Measures, Mental and Behavioral Health, Critical Communications, New Tools and New Strategic Planning. View a summary of the findings.

Chairman Franks said, “I want to thank the members of the Resume McHenry County Task Force for their leadership, ideas and contributions. As we move to reopen businesses and our economy, these measures will help ensure a successful transition and help us return to our lifestyles safely and responsibly.”

Franks added, “The COVID-19 pandemic has put tremendous challenges on residents and businesses, but we are strong and resilient. We must continue to work together. Please support our McHenry County businesses. They need our help now more than ever.”

The Task Force’s summary concludes their initial work, but the group will serve as a resource to businesses as the County continues to transition into the additional phases of reopening. McHenry County and the McHenry County Economic Development Corporation (MCEDC) will work in partnership to share the outcomes with businesses and stakeholders and implement the action items.

One of the items includes developing a COVID-19 multi-sector recovery plan that not only looks at short-term recovery to resume daily life but more importantly, looks at long-term efforts and changes necessary to increase resiliency. The County is reaching out to various stakeholders, including businesses, faith-based groups and others to provide input into the plan.

McHenry County EDC President Jim McConoughey said, “The safety of our workforce, customers and residents is paramount as we transition into Phase 3 of the State’s plan to reopen on May 29, but we are also thinking ahead many months from now to make sure our businesses have the resources, assistance and tools they need to thrive. We are committed to accurately, authentically and transparently communicating with the public and business community in order to restore our economic prosperity while staying safe and healthy.”

The State has created online tool kits to help businesses and employers safely reopen and keep employees and customers safe.

• Phase 3 Business Toolkit
• Restore Illinois Phase 3 Guidelines for reopening business and returning people to worksafelyMore information can also be found on the County’s Coronavirus resource page atwww.mchenrycountyil.gov/covid19resources. McHenry County residents also can call 211 to talk with an agent who can refer them to services.

Contact:

Jim McConoughey
President, McHenry County EDC Cell 309-657-5901