TITLE
Recommendation to request City Manager to work with the Department of Financial Management and the Economic Development Department to explore the feasibility of deploying tools and resources necessary to ensure retail businesses and restaurants can successfully and safely reopen.
DISCUSSION
Such as:
• A queueing management system to alleviate lines and waiting areas for retail,
• Regulation of third-party delivery platform fees to help local restaurants, and
• Compliance education and technical support for small businesses
On Wednesday, May 27, 2020, the City of Long Beach announced the reopening of in-store retail and office-based businesses with prescribed restrictions to prevent the spread of COVID-19. While this reopening is in alignment with the State of California and Los Angeles County, the Los Angeles County awaits pending State to allow limited seating in restaurants and the reopening of hair salons, moving further into Stage 2 of the California Resilience Roadmap.
It is imperative that as more business establishments reopen, they are equipped with the tools necessary to ensure the safety and well-being of their employees and customers, and they can successfully operate under the changing health orders.
Queuing Management System
The revised health order restricts in-store retail to up to 50% of its maximum capacity, which can cause long lines, often seen at grocery stores and markets. By deploying a queuing management system for local businesses, consumers can access real-time updates on a store's capacity and wait times. Access to this kind of infrastructure would enhance social distancing during the in-store experience.
A queuing management system can control store traffic, alleviate long lines, and inform a customer of when they are next in the queue for service. A queuing system offers a modern tool for business activity, which will benefit the business and its patrons.
Third-Party Delivery Platforms
To remain active during th...
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