As the state reported its largest number of coronavirus cases, Mayor Andrew “FoFo” Gilich today announced new safety standards designed to protect public health and safety in Biloxi businesses.
The set of guidelines — called “Opening up Biloxi Again” — does not open any businesses not already authorized to open by the governor, but sets city health and safety expectations for those already open and those who are awaiting approval. The guidelines, which take into account the Governor’s Safer at Home order, will be mailed to homes and businesses across the city in Biloxi next week. The guidelines are on the city website now.
The new safety guidelines are announced today as the state report its largest one-day growth of coronavirus cases statewide, 397 new cases, while Harrison County continues a downward trajectory that began more than 14 days ago.
The mayor also announced today that the city’s nightly curfew would end Sunday morning, meaning the 11 p.m.-to-5 a.m. curfew remains in effect tonight and Saturday night.
The four-page “Opening Up Biloxi Again” guidelines, dated today, establish protocols for various sectors of the Biloxi business community. Among those sectors already opened are retailers, non-casino hotels, and healthcare facilities. The guidelines also cover those awaiting the OK to open, including dine-in restaurants, bars, hair and nail salons, and fitness centers.
The guidelines establish occupancy — 50 percent for retailers — and other operating standards, including masks and gloves in some cases, and having “contract tracing” in place, should health agencies need information in the event of a future spike in cases locally.
“You as a citizen need to be aware of and abide by these protocols,” Gilich says in a message included in “Opening up Biloxi Again.” “Business owners are responsible for making sure that you follow these protocols. If you don’t, you could threaten the public health of this community.
“There is no need for fear, but there is understandable concern. Everyone is capable of making good decisions. I’m asking you to follow these protocols and do the right thing.”
See the Opening up Biloxi Again guidelines
Facebook: See today’s update
YouTube: See today’s update
See the overall tracking chart
See the daily comparison chart
See the Harrison County 14-day chart
See the White House plan for Opening Up America Again
See the Governor’s Safer at Home order
FAQs: Guidance from the Governor’s office
See the mayor’s executive order signed Tuesday
