Among the exemptions to the state order closing non-essential retail shops are hardware stores like Klingenberg’s Hardware, which has two locations in Covington. They must, however, follow directives on social distancing and hygiene.
Gov. Beshear: Groceries, banks, pharmacies among exceptions
COVINGTON, Ky. - Many retail stores in Covington must close to in-person shopping starting at 8 p.m. today under Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear’s latest order aimed at protecting Kentuckians from the coronavirus pandemic.
Which ones?
Gov. Beshear’s order, seen
HERE, includes both descriptions and a detailed list of the types of businesses that must close and those that can stay open.
For example, (and these aren’t all-inclusive lists):
- Can remain open: grocery stories, pharmacies, banks, hardware stores, liquor stores, car repair shops and auto parts stores, gas stations, pet supply stories, general merchandise stores, and others that provide staple goods.
However, those stores allowed to remain open must follow directives on social distancing and hygiene guidance, including physical separation of employees and customers by at least 6 feet, hand-washing, and regular sanitization of surfaces.
- Must close to walk-in traffic: clothing stores, shoe stores, jewelry shops, department stores, automobile dealers, furniture and appliance stores, florists, etc.
These retail stores may provide local delivery and curbside service of online or telephone orders.
Gov. Beshear announced the new restrictions on Sunday as another in a series of steps taken under Kentucky’s “State of Emergency.” He also ordered the cancellation of all elective medical procedures to help halt the spread of COVID-19, the highly contagious and sometimes fatal disease caused by the new strain of coronavirus.
Previously, the Governor:
- Ordered the closure of bars and restaurant dining rooms (though they can remain open for carryout and delivery orders).
- Closed schools to in-person instruction.
- And banned mass public gatherings at things like concerts, sporting events, and church services.
Assistant City Manager Bruce Applegate, who has been appointed as Covington’s Coronavirus Coordinator, said Covington’s businesses should adhere to the Governor’s order or risk being shut down by the state.
“We know that this action will be a great burden for many of our businesses, but it’s a critically necessary step,” City Manager David Johnston said. “The better we comply with these directives, the better the community will survive this pandemic and the sooner these directives will be lifted.”
A list of all of Gov. Beshear’s executive orders can be found
HERE.
The City of Covington has set up a webpage outlining City announcements and actions related to COVID-19,
HERE.