Title
Authorizing the Fiscal Stability and Intergovernmental Cooperation Committee to hold hearings examining the economic impact of the Coronavirus-related restrictions on Philadelphia's restaurants and other significantly affected businesses and to explore how these actions will impact the safety of our citizenry and the City of Philadelphia's Five-Year Financial Plan.
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WHEREAS, Since March of 2020, the City of Philadelphia and the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania have placed restrictions on economic and social activity in response to the Coronavirus pandemic to prevent further spread of the virus and the consequent loss of life; and
WHEREAS, With case numbers at an all-time high, with a weekly total in Pennsylvania nearing 7,000 cases, the City must carefully consider the balance of protecting the health and safety of our citizens with the crippling consequences to our economy. It is essential that local leaders make transparent and consistent decisions during this unprecedented time. The balance between respecting the science and expert input while doing as much to preserve the local economy as possible is essential; and
WHEREAS, Throughout 2020 the City has closed various businesses both independently and with respect to mandatory statewide mandates. As of November 2020, the City once again put stronger restrictions into place prohibiting indoor dining, indoor exercise facilities and classes, and restricting gatherings indoors and outdoors with non-household member persons; and
WHEREAS, Philadelphia's restaurant community is one of its crown jewels. Its restaurants and restaurateurs are nationally acclaimed, have won every major national and regional award, and are a centerpiece of Philadelphia's prominent tourism and hospitality sectors. Philadelphia's restaurants also serve as an incubator and forum for Philadelphia's distinctive civic and cultural life. Moreover, they employ tens of thousands of Philadelphians from all walks of life; and
WHEREAS, T...
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