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Ripon leaders concerned about businesses being able to survive
covid reopen

Kelly Donohue is concerned about local businesses.
That comes on the heels of Gov. Gavin Newsome's orders Monday -- San Joaquin County Public Health Officer Dr. Maggie Park signed the county's stay-at-home orders -- to shut down all dine-in restaurants across the state as COVID-19 cases continue to climb.
At Tuesday's Ripon City Council meeting, she expressed her frustration on the "indefinite closure" to the small businesses.
"It will take creativity and support," said Donohue, who is the president and CEO for the Ripon Chamber of Commerce.
She applauded the efforts of the local places for creativity in providing extended patios for outdoor dining during Phase 2 of the stay-at-home orders.
"They received cooperation from their neighbors," said Donohue on local businesses providing support for one another during the tough times.
City Administrator Kevin Werner believes the latest closure could "have a significant impact to businesses."
He added: "We've worked hard with small businesses, trying to find 'What is the answer?'"
Planning Director Ken Zuidervaart noted that small businesses make up a big part of Ripon.
He also mentioned the city's Small Business Assistance Grant Program for places with no less than three and no more than 30 employees, where eligible businesses can offset cost from the coronavirus pandemic to pay rent, payroll, utilities or inventory or equipment related to their business, as helping out during the tough times.
"Seventy-one small businesses applied (for the grant)," he said of the first come, first serve funding.
The Council Chambers, in addition, was closed to the public for the monthly session due to the new shutdown orders by the state. The meeting was aired via livestream and can be viewed again on YouTube.