GCVCC and Riverside County Supervisor want to reopen local economy

"We hope that we can get back to business as usual but there are no guarantees," said Joshua Bonner.

CEO and President of the Greater Coachella Valley Chamber of Commerce, Joshua Bonner is advocating for small businesses here in our valley to reopen soon through a letter addressed to Riverside County Supervisor Manuel Perez.

"We wanted to express to the county," said Bonner. "We think there are certain segments of the business that do similar business to businesses that are opened that could open very soon assuming they can meet the PPE that is necessary."

According to the letter, G.C.V.C.C. listed a five-step plan the county should take in the next few weeks to help move the economy along in hopes that the county task force can draw up a timeline to when local shops could reopen.

Bonner points out how many big-box stores remain open and are even allowed to sell non-essential goods while other local stores are closed.

"The reality is that they have essential goods that are necessary to live," said Stephen Monkarsh, Boutique Owner. "In my store, you know there are a lot of fun stuff things."

Monkrash said he understands the urgency to push to re-open up the economy but he feels like its not time.

"I want them to do what's best for the small business people and the community," said Monkarsh. "So that we are all in a healthy environment."

"All we can do is make recommendations and opinions it's not our place to make to reopen the economy that's ultimately up to county health officials," said Bonner.

Riverside County District 4 Supervisor Manny Perez responding to the letter.

"I agree with the letter," said Perez. "I think that it is important that we have a plan and work with our locals to ensure and at the county level we are doing everything possible as we are flattening the curve."