BACP and CDPH Meeting Recap: Wednesday, March 31, 2021

The City of Chicago’s Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection (BACP) and Chicago Department of Public Health (CDPH) hosted a conference call with government officials and business operators today. The call topic was on the recent increase in COVID-19 positivity test rates and current regulations for bars, restaurants, and multi-unit residences. 

Below is a recap of the meeting:

Who Attended:

• The call was hosted by Mayor Lori Lightfoot, Deputy Mayor Samir Mayekar, senior officials from the CDPH and BACP
• Over 900 attendees were on call

Recent Increase in Positive COVID-19 Tests:

• Positive test results are up, particularly among young adults
• This pattern mirrors a spike in COVID cases that took place in October 2020
• Major metrics/results are up by 15% over the previous week

City of Chicago Restrictions Update:

• Restaurants, bars, and common areas in residential buildings have been identified as vectors for this spread 
• The City is trying to avoid reimposing previous restrictions and limitations
• Signage and messaging communicating regulations/expectations are strongly recommended 
• 28 citations were issued to businesses last weekend, including fines and temporary closures
• Violations included over-capacity, but most were gatherings of standing, unmasked attendees – patrons expected to be seated when eating or drinking
• In addition to BACP, reps from Buildings, police, and fire will respond to violation complaints
• The building owner/manager should call 911 if third-party hosts are refusing to comply with regulations
• CDPH verified that engineers, property managers, and cleaning staff are a part of vaccine Phase 1c

Questions?

Contact BACP at [email protected]

As always, if you “See Something, Say Something.” For life-threatening emergencies, call 911. To report suspicious activity, call 855-RPRT-2-S4 (855-777-8274).