CLEVELAND — Cleveland Mayor Frank Jackson delivered his 15th State of the City address, and it was unlike any of the previous years. He did virtually because of coronavirus concerns.
Jackson discussed the city’s response to COVID-19, including the mandatory mask mandate, and a limit on mass gatherings.
“We mandated a maximum capacity of any bar, restaurant or entertainment venue could not exceed 50 percent of its allowable capacity. We made it clear that any establishment that violated the maximum capacity guidelines, or the mass gathering orders, would face monetary penalties and possible shutdowns,” said Jackson.
Mayor Jackson didn’t just discuss how the virus has impacted the physical health of residents, but also the economy and city budget. He also described cost saving measures taken to maintain city services and prevent layoffs.
“We made cost control measures from the onset of the pandemic by implementing a hiring freeze and reducing discretionary spending. In addition, we delayed cadet classes for both police and fire, and we limited overtime.”
Jackson also stressed the need for more criminal justice reform.
“The color of your skin or your economic status should not determine your guilt or innocence, or whether or not you receive a harsher sentence, ensuring a jury, a jury of peers, is very important and very central in that process.”
But Jackson also issued a call to action to those who are calling for change.
“By participating in the system and accessing the power to make those changes. Just depending, just depending on the goodwill of others is not going to work,” said Jackson. “Without substantive and sustainable institutional change, we will never become a great city, we will never create communities where all people can thrive, and share a quality of life and prosperity.”
The mayor also talked about $10 million in business support programs to help businesses with working capital, payroll and other expenses.
