NORTHVILLE CITIZENS, BUSINESS OWNERS & COMMUNITY!
In an effort to keep you well-informed, I am writing again this week representing your City of Northville team. I want you to know I have remained in steady contact with Federal, State, County & local municipal officials ... gathering as much information as possible to assist our community in fighting & responding to the COVID-19 virus.
As we would all attest, it’s been another extraordinary week – just look at all that’s happened:
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The state of Michigan & City of Northville is now part of the “Stay Home. Stay Safe.” edict.
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The auto companies have been engaged to make ventilators, masks, and other needed items under the Defense Production Act.
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A massive $2.2 trillion relief package has been approved through Congress.
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The 2020 North American International Auto Show is now canceled – FEMA has selected the TCF Center (Cobo - our auto show venue) to become a field hospital for COVID-19 cases.
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Congress recently passed the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act, which benefits restaurants, food service establishments & employees (the Payback Protection Program is part of this). For additional info, click here.
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Playgrounds & other gathering places have been closed.
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And finally, Michigan has been declared a major disaster area by the federal government thus giving us resources for a “Meals” program, “Rental Housing” aid, State-assistance by FEMA, as well as Field Hospital, setups by the Army Corp of Engineers.
Also, good news – local small business grants & loan programs have been developed by the Michigan Economic Development Corporation ($20 Million) that our local businesses can apply for. Additionally, there is now an additional $10 Million from Wayne & Oakland County for local business operations in need.
Communication continues to be a top priority for all of us …
The federal & state government, along with Governor Whitmer, has signed legislation allowing local municipalities to conduct meetings electronically (via Zoom or other digital tools).
And that’s welcome news! Over the past week, I have participated in meetings via Zoom, and also business gatherings and County conference calls. Northville now has the approval to conduct municipal meetings in this modern & productive way, maintaining physical distancing.
Previously, I had scheduled a Town Hall Q&A meeting for 3/30 and then a Small Business Gathering on 3/31. With these meetings set aside, I’ve been asked to communicate directly, and therefore I plan on having a “Zoom” meeting in early April to answer as many questions as possible. As you can imagine, I’ve been answering lots of questions daily (via text, phone or email) since this situation began… so I’ll try to communicate my responses to these and any other questions you may have. Please stay tuned for call-in details.
Additional Updates
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Many states including Michigan have implemented shelter-in-place orders. I encourage people to stay home but stay connected digitally … when essential trips are necessary (pharmacy, groceries, etc.), practice physical distancing, maintain 6 feet of space from each other. Our goal is to keep everyone safe and flatten the curve of infection as quickly as possible.
What does this all mean for you?
Northville City Operations
As you may know from our previous communications, the following actions have taken place:
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Senior Transportation (medical, grocery shopping, work) will continue at this time.
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All Activities / Meetings / Gathering for the city have been suspended, for your safety.
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Essential Businesses that will remain open: Grocery stores, pharmacies, gas stations, liquor stores, hardware outlets, laundromats, banks, auto service & pet stores.
Service by your Northville Police, Fire, Advanced Life Support Staff & First Responders will continue for your safety without interruption.
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We’ll continue to coordinate response efforts & best practices with surrounding communities.
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Please help support our First Responders by calling 911 only when it’s critical... and thank them for their service when you see them ⠀
In Conclusion …
As many of you have heard me say, we don't have all the answers. The truth is, no one does, but I can assure you that your Northville officials, employees & myself are doing everything we can for your safety. ⠀
Again, here are a few tips I’m personally following & encourage you to do the same: ⠀
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Support your local businesses in Northville – the survival of many of your favorite businesses is dependent on our support now. Most restaurants are open & offering delivery or curbside pick-up. Local businesses may have adjusted hours, but many are also offering online orders, as well as delivery or curbside pick-up. Consider buying gift cards for local stores to use at a later date. As you restock your pantries & freezers or order items online, please consider ways you can keep your business local.
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Reach out & check-in with our seniors, family members, friends and others who are a part of your lives.
Continue to use these sites for updated information on COVID-19:
Northville is strong because every one of you is working together to keep our community safe. If you have additional questions or concerns, please contact me directly on my cell 248-505-6849 (even just to talk).
Keep that Northville Faith! We will get through this TOGETHER!
Brian Turnbull
Mayor- Northville
248 505 6849
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