Some Lloydminster businesses will now be able to open up with the rest of Saskatchewan.
The government announced that Lloydminster businesses can reopen on May 19th so long as physical distancing guidelines are followed and owners follow proper cleaning procedures.
“It was welcome news for the City of Lloydminster,” says Manager EMO Jordan Newton. “It’s been two months since the lockdown started in our city and we are cautiously optimistic that things will be returning to normal as some of these non-allowable businesses will start to resume service and public facing service.”
Clothing stores, vaping supply stores, music stores and other retail shops as well as hairdressers, barbers and massage therapists can return to their places of business in the second phase of the Re-open Saskatchewan Plan.
Farmers markets and thrift stores were recently added to list of businesses scheduled in the second phase. All will have to abide by the ten person gathering limit and ensure physical distancing is being followed inside.
“The province has compiled a detailed list of guidelines that retail businesses must follow in re-opening. Businesses, included in phases one and two, opening is at the discretion of the business owner based on risk assessment and the ability to operate safely protecting both their staff and customers.”
Newton advises city businesses to access their business toolkit to find more resources on reopening. He also reminds business owners on the Alberta side of the border that the entire city is following the dates and rules set out by Saskatchewan.
“The City of Lloydminster in its entirety is following the steps outlined by the Government of Saskatchewan in the Reopen Saskatchewan Plan. All businesses within our community regardless of which side of the border they’re on must follow the Reopen Saskatchewan Plan.”
Newton encourages residents to continue following proper hygiene practices like hand washing and physical distancing as stores reopen.
“As we continue to navigate these challenges we must remember as a city that reopening is contingent on maintaining manageable COVID-19 case numbers. As a community we must remain diligent in protecting ourselves and those around us.”
Phase three of the plan will allow for beauty shops providing cosmetology or manicure and pedicure services as well as tattoo artists and gyms to reopen. Restaurants, bars and food services will be able to operate at 50 per cent capacity and child care centres can reopen.
The public gathering limit will be increased to a maximum of 15 people in this phase. There has been no date set for when these businesses can open as it will be based on the success of the second phase.
“Phase three hasn’t been announced by the Government of Saskatchewan as of yet but as we learn more about the release date we’ll be giving more information to our business community.”