Vermilion County Board Chairman Larry Baughn is reaching out letting citizens know the County works daily to try to find ways to help small business owners and citizens alike….
{‘’I find it troubling, distasteful, and downright disrespectful that Governor Pritzker would say to leaders across the state that we were afraid to tell our constituents what they may not want to hear. In fact, some of us agree with our constituents – and our constituents need to be heard,’’ said Baughn. ‘’Two months ago we were told that he would leave it to the locals – they know what’s best and right for their areas. Now, only to be told just the opposite,’’ added Baughn.
And Baughn says he is confident that small businesses would follow necessary guidelines if they were allowed to re-open….
{‘’I think precautions are warranted, but I also know our small business community,’’ said Baughn. ‘’I know that not one of them would want to put their friends, families, neighbors or customers in harm’s way without some specific standards and guidelines. But we cannot sit back and watch the very businesses that we rely on – not just for services — we rely on them for donations to food pantries, service organizations, benefits and more. They continually are told by the government that they do not understand science and logic – so therefore some of you are more essential than others. So you can be open – but you can’t be. To the leaders, the Governor said: ‘Now, more than ever, step up and lead your communities. They need you now more than ever.’ – With that, I will agree with the Governor on,’’ added County Board Chairman Baughn.
Baughn also noted neighboring states have found unique ways to re-open their small businesses. The Vermilion County Board Chairman urged local and state leaders to ‘’stop partisan politics and think of small town Illinois and the negative effect this (shutdown) will cause for decades to come.’’
Baughn told VermilionCountyFirst.com News that he envisions the full county board will likely be called into special session to act on a resolution supporting businesses soon.
