Dear County: Reopen Bike Shops
The Alachua County Commission has passed an Emergency Order aimed at preventing the spread of COVID-19 that defined what businesses are “essential” and therefore exempt from mandatory closure. Although automobile-centric businesses (repair shops, oil change and tire businesses) were deemed to be essential, bicycle shops were not. Local bike shops are therefore mandated to close their doors until further notice.
Paul Schmidt of Bikes & More submitted an application for essential business status. He was turned down. My understanding is that he will be able to appeal this decision. Regardless, many citizens who rely on their bicycles now have greatly limited access to parts and repair services.
The States of New York and Washington, and City of Philadelphia have all implemented similar emergency orders during the current pandemic. All consider bike shops to be essential, and are allowing them to remain open. (There may be other States and cities who are allowing bike shops to stay open. These are the ones I know about).
I plan to contact our County Commission and encourage them to change their stance and allow bike shops to remain open, and I hope other GCC members will do the same.
Sincerely,
Ally Gill