• Business Partner Letters Archive
• 2022 Outdoor Dining Guide
• September 24th, 2020 Restaurant Call Video
• Restore Illinois Phase 4: Re-Opening of Indoor Dining & More

Outdoor Dining

Al fresco dining season is finally here! 

The Village of Gurnee recognizes the unprecedented challenges that the hospitality industry has faced over the last two years.  In an effort to offset indoor capacity restrictions during the pandemic, the Village implemented temporary outdoor dining guidelines last year and is continuing this approach in 2022 to support our restaurants in providing a service that their customers clearly value!

The complete text of the 2022 Village of Gurnee Temporary Outdoor Guidelines can be found here.

In particular, please note:

• A no-fee temporary use permit is required for:
  • any dining area located within a parking lot or right of way
  • any structure (e.g. tent) that is more than 50% enclosed or is heated
• If neither of those conditions apply, then a permit is not required but the outdoor dining area must comply with all provisions of the temporary guidelines.

Liquor to Go

Current Village of Gurnee Class 1 & 2 liquor licensees may continue to offer Liquor to Go pursuant to the terms and conditions set forth in Illinois State Statute, 235 ILCS 5/6-28.8 and all regulations and guidelines issued by the Illinois Liquor Control Commission.

Small Business Capital Grant
Looking to add a permanently constructed outdoor dining area?  Or other capital investment to support your business’ growth?  The Village has established the Small Business Capital Investment Grant (SBCG) to assist independent restaurants, retailers, and entertainment businesses in making capital improvements.  More information on the program and eligibility criteria can be found here.  

Gurnee Days
The Village of Gurnee is proud to partner with the Gurnee Park District in bringing the community together for Gurnee Days on August 6 & 7, 2022. If you are interested in being a supporter, vendor or part of the parade, please visit the Gurnee Days webpage here.

We value your contribution to the Village and are pleased to partner with you as we all evolve to meet today’s business demands.   Thank you for all you do for Gurnee!

Sincerely,

Ellen K. Dean
Economic Development Director

Download a PDF of this letter

November 3, 2021
 
Dear Gurnee Business Partner:
 
The Village of Gurnee recognizes and appreciates the value, hard work and investments made by the Gurnee business community.  Your success is our success.   This is always true, and particularly evident throughout the COVID-19 pandemic; your resilience has been heartening and inspiring.
 
The Village is pleased to be in a financial position to offer an estimated $425,000 in support aimed at assisting local businesses in their COVID-19 recovery efforts.  New initiatives, recently unanimously adopted by the Village Board, include:

For all licensed permanent businesses, a 50% reduction in the 2022 Business License fee

For small businesses (a brand with fewer than 20 locations) with narrow exceptions, within the categories of Retail, Restaurant/Event, or Entertainment:

100% waiver of 2022 on-premises liquor license fee

$10,000 in matching grant funds for capital investment

 
Business License Fee 50% Reduction
Business License Fee renewal notices reflecting the 50% reduction for qualifying businesses will be sent in November for the 2022 calendar year renewal.  No further action is required on your part other than timely submittal of the required documentation and continued compliance with all requirements.
 
Liquor License Fee 100% Waiver
Liquor License renewal notices reflecting the 100% waiver for qualifying businesses licensed as of December 31, 2021, will be sent in February, 2022 for a May 1 renewal.  No further action is required on your part other than timely submittal of the required documentation and continued compliance with all requirements.
 
Small Business Capital Grant – Applications Now Open!
The Village Board approved $250,000 to assist qualifying businesses with capital projects within the Village of Gurnee. The Small Business Capital Grant (SBCG) program authorizes each qualifying applicant to receive, on a reimbursement basis, up to $10,000 in 1:1 matching funds for capital projects.  Projects completed as early as January 1, 2020, may be eligible, and the program will remain open as long as funds remain.
 
Eligible applicants include businesses of any size located within the Village of Gurnee corporate limits as long as the business meets all of the criteria eligibility below:

Generates sales tax, food & beverage tax or amusement tax and is current with remittance of all such taxes payable to the Village

Must have a Village of Gurnee business license (this program excludes home occupations and temporary businesses) and be properly licensed in all other respects

Must be in good standing with the Village of Gurnee and compliant with all obligations

Must not be associated (including as a franchisee) with a brand of 20 or more locations, with one exception: businesses associated with a national brand that has relocated within the Village of Gurnee during the eligible period, incurring eligible expenses in so doing

Excludes grocery, pharmacy, fuel stations, packaged liquor, vape/smoke, body modification establishments, professional services, and hotel/motel

Capital projects are those which enhance or improve an asset; in this case, commercial real estate. Capital projects are typically defined as new construction, expansion, or renovation of a property. Eligible projects for the SBCG Program include, but are not limited to: roof replacements/repair, patio structure of a permanent nature, parking lot resurfacing, signage improvements, plumbing, electrical and HVAC improvements. 

Small Business Capital Grant eligibility details, Frequently Asked Questions, and an application form are available on the Village’s website: www.gurnee.il.us/smallbusinessgrant.   Please feel free to contact Management Analyst Jodi Luka at smallbusiness@village.gurnee.il.us or 847-599-6601 for assistance.

These new initiatives are an opportunity for the Village of Gurnee to give back to its businesses which contribute so much to our community.  Thank you for your ongoing investment in, and commitment to, Gurnee.

Sincerely,



 
Thomas B. Hood
Mayor
Village of Gurnee
 

Gurnee Business Partner October 5, 2021

October 5, 2021

Gurnee Business Partners:

The application window for Illinois Back 2 Business Grants (B2B) Grants is closing on October 13.  Grants of $5,000- $150,000, can help business owners offset losses, bring back workers, and take continued steps to rebuild. 

Complete grant information can be found at:

Back to Business Grant Program Overview

Eligibility criteria and priority categories

Frequently asked questions

• On Wednesday, October 6, Representative Joyce Mason be hosting her final Back to Business grant event at the Zion City Hall, 2828 Sheridan Road, from 4-7pm. All small business owners are welcome.  There will be navigators, including Spanish speaking navigators, from the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) there to answer questions and assist business owners with completing and submitting their grant applications.
• A recent DCEO webinar about how to apply for B2B can be viewed here.

The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) recently announced enhancements to the COVID Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program.  Business owners that have received loans through the SBA’s Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), Restaurant Revitalization Fund (RRF), or Shuttered Venue Operators Grant (SVOG) can still benefit from COVID EIDL.  The last day for applications is December 31, 2021 but all applicants should file as soon as practicable.  To learn more about the application process, visit www.sba.gov/eidl.  If you have questions about your already submitted EIDL application, contact the SBA Disaster Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or disastercustomerservice@sba.gov.

Lastly, just a reminder to business owners that, if  your PPP loan is $150,000 or less, and your lender is participating, you may be eligible to apply for direct forgiveness through SBA using its online portal.   Find out if your lender is participating.  Watch a video about how to use the portal.   Apply for forgiveness.  For additional information, visit the SBA website.

Sincerely,

Ellen Dean
Economic Development Director

VILLAGE OF GURNEE

Download a PDF of this letter

September 17, 2021

Gurnee Business Partners:

Federal and state COVID-19 relief programs have continued to evolve; below are details on a few quick, easy (some virtual, some live – right in our own backyard!)  opportunities to get the latest updates.

Illinois Back 2 Business Grants

As part of Illinois' COVID-19 economic recovery program, the $250 million Back to Business (B2B) grant program supports the recovery of small businesses in the hardest hit industries; grants of $5K-$150K can help offset losses, bring back workers, and take continued steps to rebuild.

Complete grant information can be found at:

Back to Business Grant Program Overview

Eligibility criteria and priority categories

Frequently asked questions

B2B - Learn More:

September 22, 9AM-12PM – Gurnee Mills

Gurnee Mills will be hosting a B2B presentation by the Illinois Department of Commerce & Economic Opportunity (DCEO) in the Gurnee Mills Show Court.  Illinois DCEO representatives will be on hand until noon to provide individual assistance.  For on-site grant applications, please bring a copy of 2019 & 2020 business federal tax returns, two business bank statements (one from Apr-Dec 2020 and one most recent) and business owner ID (ITIN accepted).  Entrance G will open at 8:30am for entry; presentation begins at 9:00AM. Refreshments will be served. Masks are required.  Sponsored by State of Illinois Representatives Joyce Mason and Sam Yingling.  For more information, info@RepJoyceMason.com. 

September 29, 9AM-10AM – Live Zoom

The Illinois Small Business Development/International Trade Center at College of Lake County, in partnership with Lake County Partners, is offering an interactive, no-cost, virtual Grant Workshop.  Register here.    

Community Navigators provide technical assistance on B2B to all businesses, with a focus on underserved businesses including minority, rural, veteran and women-owned.  Any local business may contact:

Lake County Navigator

Greater Waukegan Development Coalition

Michael Edgar, President & Board Chair

jon@greaterwaukegan.org.

847-440-2021

COVID Economic Injury Disaster Loan Updates (EIDL)

The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) recently announced enhancements to the COVID EIDL program.  Key changes included:

• Increased Cap from $500,000 to $2 million:  Loan funds may be used for any normal operating expenses and working capital, including payroll, equipment purchases, and debt payment.
• Deferred Payment Period:   Repayment need not begin until two years after loan origination.
• Expanded Eligible Use of Funds:  Funds will now be eligible to prepay commercial debt and make payments on federal business debt. 
• Simplified affiliation requirements: Affiliation requirements now model those of the Restaurant Revitalization Fund. 

Business owners that have received previous loans through the SBA’s Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), Restaurant Revitalization Fund (RRF), or Shuttered Venue Operators Grant (SVOG) can still benefit from COVID EIDL.  The last day for applications is December 31, 2021 but all applicants should file as soon as practicable.  To learn more about the application process, visit www.sba.gov/eidl.  If you have questions about your already submitted EIDL application, contact the SBA Disaster Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or disastercustomerservice@sba.gov. 

COVID EIDL - Learn More:

September 23, 11:00 & 4:00 CST (12:00 & 5:00PM EST) – Live Zoom

Choose the time that’s most convenient for you!  Join the Indiana District Office of the SBA for this no-cost opportunity to learn more about the new enhancements to the SBA COVID EIDL program.    Register here.

September 28, 11:30AM CST (12:30 EST) – Live Zoom

Hosted by the organization, Innovating Commerce Serving Communities (ICSC), this workshop - $25 for nonmembers – features Anna Marie Lucas, Senior Advisor, Office of Field Operations, US SBA, discussing how the COVID EIDL can assist the nation’s 150,000 small businesses.  Register here.  

PPP Forgiveness Portal

The SBA launched a streamlined application portal to allow borrowers with Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans of $150,000 or less through participating lenders to apply for forgiveness directly through the SBA. Borrowers that need assistance or have questions should call (877) 552-2692, Monday – Friday, 7 a.m. - 7 p.m. CST.

Need a refresher on how to use the PPP Forgiveness Portal? Watch a replay of the training below:

Watch training

I hope that these resources provide some measure of assistance.  As always, thank you for your partnership and all that you bring to, and do for, Gurnee!  

Sincerely,

Ellen Dean
Economic Development Director

VILLAGE OF GURNEE

Download a PDF of this letter

June 10, 2021

Dear Gurnee Business Partner:

Tom’s Tours

In 2020, as a Trustee of the Village of Gurnee, Mayor Thomas B. Hood started Tom’s Tours visiting local businesses of all types and showcasing their operations on social media as a way to support Gurnee’s business community, particularly during the challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic.  The video tour has proved very popular with the community and is being continued by now-Mayor Hood.  If you are interested in a visit from the Mayor (a great opportunity to ask questions and provide input into Village operations), please visit https://www.gurnee.il.us/tom's-tours, complete the form, and Village staff will be in touch!

Gurnee’s Got It – 102.3XLC

Another great opportunity to introduce your business – to Gurnee and all of Lake County and beyond – is to join us as a guest for a 5-10-minute interview with 102.3XLC morning hosts Wes & Leah.   According to your preference, interviews may be live or prerecorded, via phone or in-person at the Gurnee Mills studio.  They will be aired on the Thursday morning “Gurnee’s Got It!” segment – sponsored by the Village, at no cost to your business.  For examples of prior interviews, please visit our audio archive at https://www.gurnee.il.us/ggi-xlc.  If interested, please contact me via email, below.

State of Illinois Fully Reopens Tomorrow, June 11

Illinois will move to a full reopening, also known as Phase 5, the final phase of the Restore Illinois plan, on Friday, June 11, 2021. Tomorrow, the state will eliminate all capacity limits on businesses, large-scale events, conventions, amusement parks, and all other venues.

According to the Governor’s office and the Illinois Department of Public Health:

• The state reaches this point as it records the lowest number of people in the hospital with COVID-19 since the beginning of the pandemic, the lowest test positivity rate, and more than 68% of Illinois residents age 18 and over who have received at least one dose of COVID-19 vaccine.
• Today the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) is reporting 366 new confirmed and probable cases, 764 people in the hospital with COVID-19, and a test positivity rate of 1.3%. These are some of the lowest COVID-19 statistics reported in Illinois to date. Additionally, IDPH is reporting 209 people with COVID-19 in the ICU and 103 people on ventilators. These are also some of the lowest counts we’ve seen since the pandemic began.
• Currently, 11.9 million doses of the COVID-19 vaccine have been administered to Illinois residents. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is reporting more than 68% of residents age 18 and older in Illinois have received at least one dose of vaccine and 51% of adults are fully vaccinated. Additionally, more than 88% of Illinois seniors have received at least one dose of vaccine.
• Currently, there is not a vaccine authorized for children younger than 12 years, and some adults have chosen not to be vaccinated. For these reasons, it is important for unvaccinated people to continue to wear masks while in public and to socially distance. The virus can continue to spread among unvaccinated individuals, which could lead to additional mutations and new, more virulent variants.
• Phase 5 Guidance for businesses and venues may be found here.

In accordance with guidance from the CDC, fully vaccinated people in Illinois can resume activities without wearing a mask except where required by federal, state, local, tribal, or territorial laws, rules, and regulations, including local business and workplace guidance.  The Village of Gurnee does not have a local mask mandate; however, some individual businesses, workplaces, or institutions might; we ask that such rules be respected on private property.

Consistent with CDC guidance, fully vaccinated and non-vaccinated persons are required to wear a face covering in certain situations including (1) on public transportation, planes, buses, trains, and in transportation hubs such as airports and train and bus stations; (2) in congregate facilities such as correctional facilities and homeless shelters; and (3) in health care settings. Individuals in schools and day cares must also continue to wear face coverings per guidance issued by the Illinois State Board of Education, Illinois Department of Children and Family Services, and the Illinois Department of Public Health.

We are so pleased to be in partnership with all of you.  Thank you for everything you do to make Gurnee the fabulous, healthy & safe, prosperous, and vibrant community that it is!   

Gurnee’s Got It! 

Sincerely,

Ellen K. Dean
Economic Development Director
edean@village.gurnee.il.us

Download PDF of this letter

May 21, 2021

Dear Gurnee Business Partner:

Bridge Phase Order
On May 17, Governor J.B. Pritzker issued Executive Order 2021-10 (Bridge Phase Order) which among other things rescinds the order requiring face coverings for fully vaccinated people when not in transit, schools, congregate settings or healthcare settings. Businesses at their option may continue to require face coverings for everyone while on their private property. 

Small Business Administration (SBA) Updates
The Small Business Administration (SBA) has announced that the Restaurant Revitalization Fund (RRF) will be closing on Monday, May 24.   Below, please find details and resources for this and other SBA programs:

Last Call For Restaurant Revitalization Fund Applications

RRF closes on Monday, May 24th at 7 p.m. CT

Eligible eating establishments have until Monday, May 24, 7 p.m. CT, to submit applications to the Restaurant Revitalization Fund (RRF). The American Rescue Plan Act established the program to provide funding to help restaurants and other eligible businesses keep their doors open. Applicants can apply at restaurants.sba.gov.

Get help with your application
Applicants can refer to the RRF Program Guide for assistance working through the application. The Call Center Support team is also available at 844-279-8898. Have questions? Review the RRF Knowledge Basei for answers to frequently asked questions about the program.

 RRF application trainings

Trainings and portal tutorials can help applicants prepare and complete their RRF application online.

• Watch: Special briefing on RRF with SBA and Public Private Strategies Institute
• Watch: Learn how to apply for RRF

Apply here

Paycheck Protection Program

SBA is currently offering PPP loans through participating community financial institutions until May 31, 2021 or until remaining funds are exhausted. Please note that not all community financial institutions are participating in PPP.

Find a lender

Shuttered Venue Operators Grant

The shuttered Venue Operators Grant program is open and eligible entities can apply now. Eligible applicants may qualify for grants equal to 45% of their gross earned revenue, with the maximum amount available for a single grant award of $10 million.

Apply

Economic Injury Disaster Loan

In response to COVID-19, small business owners, including agricultural businesses and nonprofit organizations, can apply for the COVID-19 Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL). Applications are open until December 31, 2021.

Apply

Upcoming trainings

Digital Strategy for Global E-commerce
Learn about digital strategies for the global marketplace from successful exporters who are using them to increase global sales. Hear about grants, programs, and services available to help you create and implement your digital global strategy. This event is part one of a two-part series presented by the SBA, the Export-Import Bank (EXIM Bank), the U.S. Commercial Service, and the U.S. Census Bureau. Thursday, May 20, 1 p.m.

Register

SBA Support for Commercializing Innovation
Join the Illinois SBDC International Trade Center for a webinar discussing the major considerations for starting a business in Illinois including writing a business plan, choosing a business structure, registering ownership, determining tax requirements, and more. Thursday, May 20, 3 p.m.

Register

Business Beyond Borders
Join the United States Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, EXIM Bank, and the SBA to learn about resources for capital, production expansion, marketing, and more. Tuesday, May 25, 1 p.m.

Register

Growing Your Global E-commerce Sales
Learn about the logistics of growing global e-Commerce including tips for handling payment and shipping in the electronic environment. The session will also include federal support programs for all your export needs. This event is part two of a two-part series presented by the SBA, the EXIM Bank, the U.S. Commercial Service, and the U.S. Census Bureau. Thursday, May 27, 1 p.m.

Register

Hiring Employees vs. Subcontractors: What You Need to Know
Join us to learn the general rules from the Internal Revenue Service that apply to an independent contractor as opposed to an employee. Bring your questions! There will be time for a Q&A. Thursday, May 27, 11 a.m.

Register

Stay updated

Visit sba.gov/relief for updates on the loan programs, guidance for businesses and employers, and other SBA resources.

If you have questions about your already submitted EIDL application, contact the SBA Disaster Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or disastercustomerservice@sba.gov.

Follow @SBA_Illinois on Twitter.  E-mail questions to illinois.do@sba.gov.

Sincerely,

Economic Development Director
Village of Gurnee

Download a PDF of this letter

May 14, 2021

Dear Gurnee Business Partner:

Bridge to Phase 5

On Friday, May 14, Illinois enters the Restore Illinois “Bridge Phase” of reopening! Following a 28-day monitoring period, a full reopening of the state - Phase 5 - could occur as early as June 11. The Bridge Phase allows for higher capacity limits and increased business operations, including but not limited to:

Full details, by business sector, for the Bridge to Phase 5 may be found here at  https://coronavirus.illinois.gov/s/bridge-phase. Also helpful is the Department of Commerce & Economic Opportunity (DCEO) Frequently Asked Questions page, regularly updated, found here.

Gurnee Temporary Outdoor Dining Guidelines

With indoor dining still restricted, the Village will continue facilitating restaurants’ use of outdoor space to accommodate more patrons safely and comfortably. The 2021 Temporary Outdoor Dining Guidelines are posted here. Additionally, the Village will continue to allow liquor-to-go by licensed establishments in accordance with State of Illinois Liquor Control Commission guidelines.

Restaurant Revitalization Fund (RRF)

The American Rescue Plan Act included an appropriation of $28.6 billion for the RRF, authorizing the Small Business Administration (SBA) to award funds. The application period for the RRF opened on May 3, and appropriations remain available until expended.  Priority in the first 21 days – through May 24 - of the program is being given to restaurants owned by women, veterans, and socially or economically disadvantaged groups.  Following the 21-day priority period, all eligible applications will be funded in the order in which they have been received.

In the first week after launching the Fund, the SBA announced that over $2 billion was awarded, with an average award of $125,000.

Interested food establishments may apply through SBA-recognized POS vendors or directly via the SBA online application portal: https://restaurants.sba.gov. Details on the program, including eligibility, use of funds, how to apply, and more may be found here.  

For an SBA Overview of the Restaurant Revitalization Fund, register for any of the following (same content) webinars:

1. Friday, May 14, 1:00pm
2. Friday, May 21, 1:00pm
3. Friday, May 28, 1:00pm

RRF - Highlights:

• Funds may be used for eligible expenses incurred between February 15, 2020 and March 11, 2023
• Eligible uses of RRF funds include:
  • Business Expenses such as payroll, utility payments, supplies, maintenance, food & beverage expenses, covered supplier costs, and operating expenses including insurance, marketing, fees, licenses, legal, Point of Sale equipment, etc.
  • Construction of outdoor seating.
  • Business Debt such as payments on any business mortgage obligation or debt service (including regular principal and interest but excluding prepayment).

• PPP recipients are eligible to apply for RRF; however, any PPP funds received will be subtracted from the RRF final funding amount. Applicants should be sure to use the same EIN, ITIN, or SSN associated with the PPP; if different between First Draw and Second Draw, closely consult RRF program rules.
• Applicants must not have a pending application or have received a Shuttered Venue Operators grant.
• Applicants do not need to be registered in SAM.gov, and the SBA will not require a DUNS or CAGE identifier.
• Any business concern operating as a franchise and meeting all other program requirements is eligible; the franchise must be listed on the SBA Franchise Directory.

RRF - What to expect:

1. As outlined by Congress, the SBA will focus its reviews on the priority applications that have been submitted. Applicants who have submitted a non-priority application will find their applications remain in a Review status while the priority applications are processed during the first 21 days. Applicants in this status should not anticipate any outreach from the SBA during this period.
2. Following a successful application submission, all applications will first enter a stage called “IRS verification.” This process may take up to seven days and allows the SBA to validate your application submission.
3. If you have questions about the award calculation, see the program guide, pages 7–9.
4. The 4506T form is signed with your application during the e-sign process. You do not need to submit an additional 4506T.
5. If you are entering a state in the address section(s) use the abbreviation in capital letters (e.g. IL for Illinois).
6. For application support, you may submit a message using the platform inbox. For quick answers, this may be your best route.
7. The SBA will continue to fund approved applications until all funds have been exhausted.

The National Restaurant Association has released a guide for restaurants and bars that applied for the Restaurant Revitalization fund, including records to maintain and keep track of and learning how to address new funds in tax filings.

Shuttered Venue Operators Grant

The Shuttered Venues Operators Grant (SVOG) includes over $16 billion in grants to shuttered venues. Eligible entities include live venue operators/promoters, museum operators, motion picture theater operators, live performing arts organization operators and more. Apply now and learn more on the SBA website.   

Employer Tax Credits for Providing Paid Leave for Vaccinations

• Internal Revenue Service Fact Sheet
• White House Statement/Release
• Department of the Treasury Snapshot

Guidance for Small Businesses Claiming Deductions from First-Round PPP Loans

The Treasury Department and the Internal Revenue Service have issued Revenue Procedure 2021-20 for certain businesses that received first-round Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans but did not deduct any of the original eligible expenses because they relied on guidance issued before the enactment of tax relief legislation in December of 2020. View the guidelines here.

Small Business Community Resources

The Illinois Small Business Development Center is offering training programs through TAD (Training Assessment and Development) and BizHub through funding from the CARES Act passed last year.

• BizHub: BizHub offers Q&A with local entrepreneurs and experts, access to a network for small businesses, a startup knowledge center, and opportunities to share your startup story or get tips from other small businesses.

• Register your business now here

• TAD: CLC offers TAD, an affordable cloud-based integrated system, to employers of any size in Lake County. TAD is a high-quality, results-oriented training designed for any-size organization. They offer training and workshops on a variety of topics including business writing, communication, ESL, leadership, and more.

• Visit clcillinois.edu/solutions to learn more
  

Six Flags Announces Donation of 50,000 Free Tickets to Encourage Vaccinations

Illinois Governor JB Pritzker was in Gurnee yesterday to announce that the Restore Illinois: Bridge Phase began Friday, May 14th. Mayor Tom Hood joined Six Flags Great America/Hurricane Harbor President Hank Salemi to introduce the Governor and announce that Six Flags is donating 50,000 free tickets to help encourage Illinois residents ages 12+ to receive their COVID-19 vaccine. Starting the first weekend in June, the Illinois National Guard will be setting up at Six Flags for a mobile clinic to receive your vaccine and visit the park for a day of fun. Click here to read more on the Six Flags Great America vaccination events and free tickets.

Lake County Vaccination Sites

Vaccination options are rapidly expanding; the Lake County Health Department’s “Find a Vaccine” page provides the most up-to-date list of sites and operational details.

Doctors Test Centers is currently running a pod for restaurant workers who live or work in Lake County. For the Registration Portal, click here. 

Many community vaccination sites are now offering walk-in service with no appointment needed.

Lake County Fairgrounds (1060 E. Peterson Rd., Grayslake)
Hours of operation (by appointment or walk-in):

• Saturday, May 15: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
• Monday, May 17: 10:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.
• Wednesday, May 19: 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
• Friday, May 21: 7 a.m. to 12 p.m.
• Saturday, May 22: 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
• Sunday, May 23: 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Eligibility: Ages 12+, Illinois residents, and residents of other states who work in Lake County, Illinois. Vaccine Supply: Both Pfizer and Moderna are provided at the Fairgrounds site, and Johnson & Johnson vaccine is available by request. Pfizer is guaranteed for ages 12-17 and is the only vaccine authorized for that age group.

Regional Vaccination Site (102 W. Water St., Waukegan)
Hours of operation (by appointment or walk-in):

• Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays: 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

This site provides drive-through and walk-in service. Eligibility: Ages 12+, Illinois residents, and residents of other states who work in Lake County, Illinois.  Vaccine Supply: Pfizer is currently provided at the Regional Vaccination Site.

Round Lake Beach (Former K-Mart Supercenter, 400 E. Rollins Rd.):
Hours of operation (by appointment or walk-in):

• Tuesdays through Sundays: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Eligibility: Ages 12+, Illinois residents, and residents of other states who work in Lake County, Illinois.  Vaccine Supply: Pfizer is currently provided at the Round Lake Beach site.

There are many locations to get the COVID-19 vaccine, including many retail pharmacies now offering walk-ins. Visit www.lakecountyil.gov/vaccine for more information.

We value your partnership and are so pleased to be crossing the “Bridge” with you toward recovery and revitalization!

Sincerely,

Ellen K. Dean
Economic Development Director

Download PDF of this letter

May 7, 2021

Dear Gurnee Business Partner:

 Bridge to Phase 5

On Thursday, Governor Pritzker announced that Illinois will enter the Restore Illinois “Bridge Phase” of reopening on Friday, May 14.   Following a 28-day monitoring period, a full reopening of the state - Phase 5 - could occur as early as June 11.   The Bridge Phase allows for higher capacity limits and increased business operations, including:

Details, by business sector, for the Bridge to Phase 5 may be found here.  Also helpful is the Department of Commerce & Economic Opportunity (DCEO) Frequently Asked Questions page, regularly updated, found here.

Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) Application Deadline – May 31

The Small Business Administration is currently offering PPP loans originated only by certain community financial institutions, through May 31 or until funds are exhausted.  To find an eligible lender still participating:

• Certified Development Companies - CDCs
• SBA Microlenders
• Community Development Financial Institutions - CDFIs
• Minority Depository Institutions - MDIs

To participate in a May 19 webinar, offered by DCEO, on the PPP program; register here.  

Employer Tax Credits for Providing Paid Leave for Vaccinations

• Internal Revenue Service Fact Sheet
• White House Statement/Release
• Department of the Treasury Snapshot
   

Gurnee Temporary Outdoor Dining Guidelines

With indoor dining still restricted, the Village will continue facilitating restaurants’ use of outdoor space to accommodate more patrons safely and comfortably.   2021 Outdoor Dining Temporary Regulations posted here.   Additionally, the Village will continue to allow liquor-to-go by licensed establishments in accordance with State of Illinois Liquor Control Commission guidelines. 

Restaurant Revitalization Fund (RRF) – Open for Applications

The American Rescue Plan Act included an appropriation of $28.6 billion for the RRF, authorizing the Small Business Administration (SBA) to award funds.   The application period for the RRF opened on May 3, and appropriations remain available until expended.  Priority in the first 21 days of the program will be given to restaurants owned by women, veterans, and socially or economically disadvantaged groups.  Details on the program, including eligibility, use of funds, how to apply, and more may be found here.   To begin the application process, please visit:  https://restaurants.sba.gov/. 

For an SBA Overview of the Restaurant Revitalization Fund, register for any of the following (same content) webinars:

1. Friday, May 14, 1:00pm
2. Friday, May 21, 1:00pm
3. Friday, May 28, 1:00pm

 A few of the highlights of the RRF Program include:

• Funds may be used for eligible expenses incurred between February 15, 2020 and March 11, 2023
• Eligible uses of RRF funds include:
  • Business Expenses such as payroll, utility payments, supplies, maintenance, food & beverage expenses, covered supplier costs, and operating expenses including insurance, marketing, fees, licenses, legal, Point of Sale equipment, etc.
  • Construction of outdoor seating
  • Business Debt such as payments on any business mortgage obligation or debt service (including regular principal and interest but excluding prepayment)
  • Register your business now here
  • Visit clcillinois.edu/solutions to learn more
• PPP recipients are eligible to apply for RRF; however, any PPP funds received will be subtracted from the RRF final funding amount.  Applicants should be sure to use the same EIN, ITIN, or SSN associated with the PPP; if different between First Draw and Second Draw, closely consult RRF program rules.
• Applicants must not have a pending application or have received a Shuttered Venue Operators grant.
• Applicants do not need to be registered in SAM.gov, and the SBA will not require a DUNS or CAGE identifier.
• Any business concern operating as a franchise and meeting all other program requirements is eligible; the franchise must be listed on the SBA Franchise Directory. 

Shuttered Venue Operators Grant Applications Open Now
The Shuttered Venues Operators Grant (SVOG) includes over $16 billion in grants to shuttered venues. Eligible entities include live venue operators/promoters, museum operators, motion picture theater operators, live performing arts organization operators and more.   Apply now and learn more on the SBA website.

Small Business Community Resources

The Illinois Small Business Development Center is offering training programs through TAD (Training Assessment and Development) and BizHub through funding from the CARES Act passed last year.

BizHub: BizHub offers Q&A with local entrepreneurs and experts, access to network for small businesses, a startup knowledge center, and opportunities to share your startup story or get tips from other small businesses.

o    Register your business now here

TAD: CLC offers TAD, an affordable cloud-based integrated system, to employers of any size in Lake County. TAD is a high-quality, results-oriented training designed for any-size organization. They offer training and workshops on a variety of topics including business writing, communication, ESL, leadership, and more.

o    Visit clcillinois.edu/solutions to learn more

Lake County Vaccination Sites

Doctors Test Centers is currently running a pod for restaurant workers who live or work in Lake County.   For the Registration Portal, click here. 

Many community vaccination sites are now offering walk-in service with no appointment needed.

Lake County Fairgrounds (1060 E. Peterson Rd., Grayslake)

Hours of operation (by appointment or walk-in):

• Friday, May 7: 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
• Saturday, May 8: 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
• Monday, May 10: 7 a.m. to 11 a.m.
• Wednesday, May 12: 3 p.m. to 7 p.m.
• Friday, May 14: 7 a.m. to 11 a.m.
• Saturday, May 15: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Eligibility: Ages 16+, Illinois residents, and residents of other states who work in Lake County, Illinois.  Vaccine Supply: Both Pfizer and Moderna are provided at the Fairgrounds site, and Johnson & Johnson vaccine is available by request. Pfizer is guaranteed for ages 16-17 and is the only vaccine authorized for that age group.

Regional Vaccination Site (102 W. Water St., Waukegan)

Hours of operation (by appointment or walk-in):

• Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays: 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
• NOTE: Closed on Sunday, May 9 for Mother’s Day

This site provides drive-through and walk-in service. Eligibility: Ages 16+, Illinois residents, and residents of other states who work in Lake County, Illinois.  Vaccine Supply: Pfizer is currently provided at the Regional Vaccination Site.

Round Lake Beach (Former K-Mart Supercenter, 400 E. Rollins Rd.):

Walk-in hours:

• Tuesdays through Sundays: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
• NOTE: Closed on Sunday, May 9 for Mother’s Day

Eligibility: Ages 16+, Illinois residents, and residents of other states who work in Lake County, Illinois.  Vaccine Supply: Pfizer is currently provided at the Round Lake Beach site.

Additional Information:

COVID-19 vaccines are free to all, regardless of insurance or immigration status. All sites listed above are vaccinating ages 16 and older. Minors under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. Vaccine supply may change, and Pfizer vaccine is only guaranteed for those ages 16-17.

The Lake County Health Department is now providing the one-dose Johnson & Johnson vaccine by appointment to its Community Health Center patients, Illinois residents, and residents of other states who work in Lake County, Illinois. Locations include the Grand Avenue Health Center in Waukegan, Midlakes Health Center in Round Lake, North Shore Health Center in Highland Park, and Zion Health Center in Zion. Please visit the AllVax Portal or call (847) 377-8130 for an appointment.

There are many locations to get the COVID-19 vaccine, including many retail pharmacies now offering walk-ins. Visit www.lakecountyil.gov/vaccine for more information.

As always, thank you for your partnership, and we look forward to crossing the “Bridge” with you toward recovery and revitalization!

Sincerely,

Ellen K. Dean

Economic Development Director
VILLAGE OF GURNEE

March 18, 2021

Dear Gurnee Business Partner:

Today, Governor Pritzker announced a new “Bridge” Phase between the current Phase 4 and Phase 5 of the Restore Illinois Plan and an expansion of vaccine eligibility, beginning April 12, for any Illinois resident 16 and over.

In an update to current Phase 4 guidelines and the new Bridge to Phase 5, individuals with proof of full vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test (PCR) 1-3 days prior to an event or outing do not count against capacity limits. Details of Phase 4 adjustments and the new Bridge Phase can be found here along with the press release from today’s announcement.

Barring any significant resurgences in positivity rates, hospitalizations, or mortality, the Bridge will start when 70 percent of Illinois residents over the age of 65 have received at least one vaccine dose; this metric currently stands at 58 percent.  Given the current pace of vaccinations in the State, it is estimated that the Bridge phase could be reached within 12-14 days but this is subject to change.   After we move into the Bridge phase, a 28-day monitoring period will begin.    The State will move into Phase 5 when 50 percent of residents 16 and over have received at least one vaccine dose.    The Governor stressed that this trajectory is dependent upon continued progress and no resurgences in the aforementioned metrics. 

All regions of the State will move through the Bridge Phase and ultimately to Phase 5 together.   The Statewide mask mandate will continue in accordance with CDC guidelines, and Illinoisans are urged to continue practicing the 3 W’s – wear a mask, watch your distance, and wash your hands.   

Today’s news is welcomed and hopeful; thank you for all that you have done, and continue to do, to keep our community healthy and prosperous.

Sincerely,

Mayor Kristina M. Kovarik

Village of Gurnee

1. A test positivity rate less <=6.5% for three consecutive days, as measured by the 7-day rolling average; AND
2. >=20% available staffed ICU hospital beds for three consecutive days, on a 7-day rolling average; AND
3.  No sustained increase in the number of people in the hospital with COVID-19 for seven out of 10 days, on a 7-day average.