To The Citizens of Arthur

Governor Pritzker’s recent executive order is somewhat lengthy and discusses several aspects of individual and business requirements in the fight to contain COVID-19. His entire order can be found at www.Illinois.gov and then searching for “Executive Order 2020-32.”

Here are excerpts from that executive order that pertains mainly to individuals beginning May 1, 2020:

Wearing a face covering in public places or when working – Any individual who is over age two and able to medically tolerate a face-covering (a mask or cloth face-covering) shall be required to cover their nose and mouth with a face-covering when in a public place and unable to maintain a six-foot social distance. Face-coverings are required in public indoor spaces such as stores.

Social Distancing – For purposes of this Executive Order, Social Distancing Requirements includes maintaining at least six-foot social distancing from other individuals, washing hands with soap and water for at least twenty seconds as frequently as possible or using hand sanitizer, covering coughs or sneezes (into the sleeve or elbow, not hands), regularly cleaning high-touch surfaces, and not shaking hands.

Prohibited activities – All public and private gatherings of any number of people occurring outside a single household or living unit are prohibited, except for the limited purposes permitted by this Executive Order. Pursuant to current guidance from the CDC, any gathering of more than ten people is prohibited unless exempted by this Executive Order. Nothing in this Executive Order prohibits the gathering of members of a household or residence.

All places of public amusement, whether indoors or outdoors, including but not limited to, locations with amusement rides, carnivals, amusement parks, water parks, aquariums, zoos, museums, arcades, fairs, children’s play centers, playgrounds, funplexes, theme parks, bowling alleys, movie and other theaters, concert and music halls, and country clubs or social clubs shall be closed to the public.

Leaving the home for essential activities is permitted – For purposes of this Executive Order, individuals may leave their residence only to perform any of the following Essential Activities, and must follow the Social Distancing Requirements set forth in this Order, including wearing face coverings when in public or at work:

For health and safety – To engage in activities or perform tasks essential to their health and safety, or to the health and safety of their family or household members (including, but not limited to, pets), such as, by way of example only and without limitation, seeking emergency services, obtaining medical supplies or medication, or visiting a health care professional.

For necessary supplies and services – To obtain necessary services or supplies for themselves and their family or household members, or to deliver those services or supplies to others, such as, by way of example only and without limitation, groceries and food, household consumer products, supplies they need to work from home, and products necessary to maintain the safety, sanitation, and essential operation of residences.

For outdoor activity – To engage in outdoor activity, provided the individuals comply with Social Distancing Requirements, as defined below, such as, by way of example and without limitation, walking, hiking, running, and biking. Individuals may go to public parks and open outdoor recreation areas, including specific State parks that remain open for certain activities, as designated by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources. Fishing, boating, and golf are permitted only when following the guidelines provided by the Illinois Department of

Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO).  Playgrounds may increase spread of COVID-19, and therefore shall be closed.

For certain types of work – To perform work providing essential products and services at Essential Businesses or Operations (which, as defined below, includes Healthcare and Public Health Operations, Human Services Operations, Essential Governmental Functions, and Essential Infrastructure) or to otherwise carry out activities specifically permitted in this Executive Order, including Minimum Basic Operations.

To take care of others – To care for a family member, friend, or pet in another household, and to transport family members, friends, or pets as allowed by this Executive Order.

To engage in the free exercise of religion – To engage in the free exercise of religion, provided that such exercise must comply with Social Distancing Requirements and the limit on gatherings of more than ten people in keeping with CDC guidelines for the protection of public health.  Religious organizations and houses of worship are encouraged to use online or drive-in services to protect the health and safety of their congregants.

As we go through this COVID-19 crisis, hopefully this will help us all better know what is expected of us when it comes to being socially responsible citizens.

Rod Randall,
Village President