Ford County, IL – Governor Pritzker recently announced a plan to safely reopen Illinois. The plan, Restore Illinois, is a
five-phased plan that will reopen the state guided by health metrics. It recognizes the distinct impact COVID-19 has
had on different regions of the state. As our region (Central) moves towards reopening, Ford County Public Health
Department (FCPHD) is seeking to partner with local businesses and organizations to plan, prepare, and respond to
COVID-19. “We are asking that all entities looking to reopen their doors at any point in the future begin making
plans to reopen with the health and safety of employees and the public in mind,” stated FCPHD Administrator, Lana
Sample.
To assist, FCPHD has developed tools and resources to guide reopening plans, including a reopening template that
can be completed and submitted to FCPHD for review. FCPHD also plans to offer a virtual meeting that individuals
can attend to discuss COVID-19 safety strategies and any questions or concerns. By offering a framework to build
safety measures upon, FCPHD’s goal is that entities will feel prepared for when they do reopen.
FCPHD encourages all employers, businesses, houses of worship, and other community organizations that work with
and serve the public to consider partnering with FCPHD to safely reopen. Essential businesses that have remained
open during the COVID-19 pandemic may also participate. FCPHD is open to communication with any local entity
looking for guidance to protect their staff and the public they serve. Ford County entities interested in receiving
information to help develop safety strategies, should call the FCPHD office at (217)379-9281, or email
info@fordcountyphd.org. Please include the title of your business or organization, primary point(s) of contact, email
address, and a telephone number. There is no deadline to submit this information, but FCPHD does encourage
entities to be proactive. Please contact the FCPDH office with any questions.
The reopening template and additional information can be found at: https://fordcountyphd.org/covid19/reopening. A GoToWebinar is scheduled for Thursday, May 21, 2020, at 12:00pm. The link and information on
this webinar can be found at: https://fordcountyphd.org/covid-19/reopening.