Local authorities ramp up monitoring of non-essential businesses
By Jim Hagerty
Reporter
ROCKFORD – Local officials are ramping up their efforts to enforce the governor’s order that non-essential businesses remain closed until April 8.
Since the J.B. Pritzker’s order went into effect last Saturday, leaders have been working with the Winnebago County State’s Attorney and the Winnebago County Health Department to review complaints and inquiries about businesses that may be defying it.
“If a business is deemed non-essential, the City Department of Law will issue a determination letter advising the business to close,” the City of Rockford posted on its Facebook page Thursday night. “If the business refuses to close, we will take all legal measures to enforce the Executive Order, including revocation of licenses, condemnation, fine, and criminal or civil sanctions.”
The health department is also reviewing and investigating complaints that essential businesses are not taking proper measures to protect their employees and customers during the pandemic.
Questions or complaints may be logged by calling the Winnebago County COVID-19 hotline at 815-319-6705 or sending an email to COVID19@wchd.org. Responses will be updated daily on the COVID19 FAQ document.