McDaniel: City Will Follow State COVID-19 Orders

Metropolis Mayor Billy McDaniel has released a statement addressing some local business owners' concerns about Governor J.B. Pritzker's executive orders related to the COVID-19 pandemic.

McDaniel says the city cannot give permission or orders that would allow businesses to reopen, and it will not take any enforcement actions on its own. McDaniel added that the city will refer any complaints to the proper state authorities.

"As the city did not close the businesses, the city does not have the authority to reopen them," McDaniel said. "Like every other citizen, I believed that this order would be in effect for 30 days, and then we would return to something closer to normal."

McDaniel says even after more than 40 days the city has not been able to reopen as he would like. He cautioned local businesses to keep in mind that the city has no way to prevent state agencies from taking action against owners who go against the executive orders.

"City government will comply will all orders that are in effect. Whether you as an individual or business or organization comply is up to you, your advisors and your insurance company," McDaniel said. "We ask that you pray about and give careful thought to any decision you make."

McDaniel's full statement is attached to this story.