This statement is in response to several false claims circulating online. To be clear, there is currently no firearm ban and no intent to seize property or close businesses. Additionally, there are no restrictions on the sale of alcohol or gas or the ability to enter or leave Champaign.
This morning, the City Council approved anticipatory provisions in preparedness to address the COVID-19 virus in our community. This is the first time the City has implemented an emergency order using reasonable anticipation as opposed to post-response to an emergency. The ordinance passed this morning by the City Council authorized the following emergency powers.
- Holding Council meetings electronically if needed, with public notice and public input if practical.
- Board and Commission meetings may be canceled.
- Special event permits and other City licenses may be suspended.
- The City Manager may authorize purchases necessary to handle the emergency.
- Personnel policies related to leave time and other conditions may be modified temporarily.
- Temporary agreements with the City’s bargaining units may be implemented as needed in conjunction with Union leadership.
- City facilities may be temporarily closed to the public in order to protect the health of residents and employees.
- Ordinance violation payment or processing timelines may be extended.
- Payment deadlines for funds owed to the City may be extended.
- Mayor may issue other temporary orders allowed by City Code and found necessary to handle the emergency.
- The Mayor may temporarily delegate powers to an emergency interim successor if necessary due to absence or incapacity of the Mayor.
The Mayor has the authority to exercise other emergency powers under the Champaign Municipal Code Section 12-39, which have been in existence since 2006; however, and under the known circumstances, no further measures are anticipated.