TOMS RIVER – A movement to support local businesses that are now reopening and outside dining establishments is being loudly promoted by county officials as phase two of the state’s opening continues.
Ocean County Freeholder Director Joseph H. Vicari, liaison to tourism and business development, is encouraging residents to support their local businesses.
Vicari said, “it is great to finally have our small businesses and our restaurants welcoming the public once again in their establishments. It’s time to get our economy back on track and we can do it safely and within the guidelines that will protect patrons and workers.”
Although there will still be safety measures in place such as social distancing and wearing masks, businesses began operations on June 15. This will be followed by personal care services opening on June 22.
With more than 3,000 food establishments throughout Ocean County, many restaurants and eateries will be taking advantage of the opportunity to provide outside dining to residents and visitors.
In addition, Ocean County is helping to make that happen as it works with municipalities where restaurants are located on county roads.
“We are working to help our small businesses that have been dramatically impacted financially by closures from the coronavirus,” Vicari added.
“We want to do all we can to accommodate them while keeping safety a priority. Their economic health is the county’s economic health,” Vicari said.
Vicari noted that tourism is a $4.8 billion business in Ocean County, and while some of these stores are seasonal there are others open year-round. “I am sure that during the time they have been closed to patrons they have taken every step possible to be prepared for reopening under strict sanitary and social distancing guidelines.”
Residents are encouraged to call businesses ahead of time, or check out business social media accounts and websites for information regarding how they are reopening.
“Now more than ever our small businesses need every one of us. We cannot forget all they do for us throughout the year whether donating to charities, providing gifts for auctions, supporting our schools and sporting events and being a big part of our volunteer emergency response teams. Now is the time to shop small and buy local,” Vicari added.
