Rockford Sun

The Winnebago County Health Dept. ordered 10 area businesses to close after health officials said they had made no effort to comply with restrictions ordered by Gov. J.B. Pritzker (D-IL) to deal with the COVID-19 pandemic.

Cases of the virus have skyrocketed in recent weeks prompting further restrictions ordered by Pritzker on Nov. 20 across the state.

The businesses include Baseball Tap in Cherry Valley, Neighbor’s Bar & Grill, Casey’s Pub and Fozzy’s Bar & Grill all in Love’s Park, Neli’s Family Restaurant in South Beloit, The Filling Station, Hoffman House, RBI’s, Waffle Shop and Opsahl’s all located in Rockford.

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The owner of Casey’s Pub provided a statement to the news website Mystateline.com saying he had decided to close because it was in the best interest of the community.

“It is with a heavy heart that after long discussion we decided it is in the best interest to you that we will be temporarily closing due to the Covid 19 virus as of tomorrow (Nov. 16),” he said, “We have been trying to fight this decision, but we do not feel comfortable taking chances with anyone.”

The report said the businesses had received seven closure orders over the past several months. A total of 85 businesses were cited for non-compliance from health officials, and 33 have been issued at least one order to close their doors, the report added.

Not complying can cost a business its liquor license or result in steep fines for continued abuse.

Health Dept. inspectors conduct visits to local businesses to see if they are in compliance with current restrictions ordered by the state, which prohibits indoor dining and requires the wearing of face masks.

Under current “Tier 3” restrictions, bars and restaurants may only offer outside service and must close at 11 p.m. Health and fitness centers and hair salons must operate at 25% or less capacity, and gaming centers and casinos are closed.