This afternoon, Governor Prizker issued a stay-at-home order for all Illinoisans, beginning Saturday March 21 at 5pm. The order comes as a measure to minimize the impact of COVID-19 on our hospitals and ultimately our residents.
“This is a good thing,” said Mayor John Bearrows. “While there are going to be challenges, we’re going to work together to overcome them.”
Rochelle residents, the stay-at-home order means this: your essential services, like grocery stores, pharmacies, banks, police, fire, medical and utility services will continue to be available. Residents may still pick up lunch from their favorite local restaurant or enjoy a walk for some fresh air.
“This organization and the community functions as a family,” said City Manager Jeff Fiegenschuh. “In my time here, I’ve seen the community come together for those who are sick, homeless and in need of food. I have no doubt that Rochelle is going to come together stronger than ever before.”
First responders have been provided with sanitation and protective equipment. The City of Rochelle and Rochelle Municipal Utilites have taken measures such as staggering shifts and dividing crews to maintain our own social distance in the departments that continue to serve you. City staffers are set to work from home providing the services our residents have come to count on.
“I would like to commend our staff and employees including police, fire and EMS personnel, who continue to provide the services that our community needs,” said Mayor John Bearrows. “The healthcare professionals in our community and throughout the US are heroes in my book.”
To read the full order from Governor Pritzker, click below: