Small Business Covid-19 Resources
Congress just approved billions in emergency loans for small businesses — and borrowers who maintain or restore their payrolls may not have to pay back the loans.

Understanding the new Federal Package can be difficult, here is one of the best sources we have found to help you understand how it can be part of our business’s plan to address this crisis’s financial impacts. https://www.uschamber.com/co/start/strategy/cares-act-small-business-guide

Want to know how to apply? Check out the easy, step-by-step Small Business Coronavirus Emergency Loan Guide: https://www.uschamber.com/sites/default/files/023595_comm_corona_virus_smallbiz_loan_final_revised.pdf

At this time we recommend all businesses looking to seek Federal Assistance or Loans to contact their local bank or lender. The SBA’s 7a Loan Program (includes new forgivable loans) and the SBA Direct Disaster Loans are all tools at your disposal.

Additionally there now Payroll Tax deferments, a Paycheck Protection Program (basically a grant to help you keep or rehire employees), new tax tools, plus the date to file taxes has been moved to July 15th.

Always seek extra debt as a last resort – Many sources of help are out there please don’t be afraid to ask. Many local banks are offering extended credit, payment deferments, and other assistance that may be more beneficial than a disaster loan.

The Small Business Administration has good resources on their website: https://www.sba.gov/page/coronavirus-covid-19-small-business-guidance-loan-resources

We are wishing you the best and here to help you. Please do not hesitate to reach out to us if you have questions! Main Street Beatrice, 402-223-3244, msothan@mainstreetbeatrice.org

Business Impact Survey:

Attention Gage County Business Owners, Managers, & HR Personnel:

Main Street Beatrice, together with the Beatrice Area Chamber of Commerce and NGage (Gage Area Growth Enterprise), is conducting a Business Impact Survey to gather data about how COVID-19 has impacted our county thus far.

Click here for the Survey Link or scan the QR code below with your mobile device camera to take the survey.

Business Resources:

For our most recent email blasts to businesses please visit:

Friday, March 20 > https://conta.cc/2QuMOnS

Tuesday, March 24 > https://conta.cc/39hcGub

Friday, March 27 > https://conta.cc/3dy4AAD

First of all, we are here to help – If you have questions or need help getting word to your customers/community let us know. We will use social media and other means to help you share news and updates.
Please send details or links to the items you want to be shared via: msothan@mainstreetbeatrice.org and info@mainstreetbeatrice.org Or call 402-223-3244
We have been working to share business posts on Facebook Let us know if you have a post we can share.

SBA Resources:
The Small Business Administration (SBA) released a toolkit offering guidance for businesses and employers to plan and respond to Coronavirus. They also offer the Economic Injury Disaster Loan program that provides small businesses with working capital loans of up to $2 million that can provide vital economic support to small businesses to help overcome the temporary loss of revenue they are experiencing.

Tool Kit

Loan Program

Emergency Preparedness

Federal Small Business Administration Disaster Loans are now available for Nebraska’s Businesses effected by Covid-19.

SBA Disaster Loan Information

These loans will be available directly through the SBA – plus many local lenders have been learning more about these programs and may be able to help you.
If you have not already done so – be sure to communicate with your lender about any difficulties you are having or expect to have – Many banks are extending lines of credit and providing other assistance in this difficult time. Do not be afraid to seek help!

Unemployment Insurance:
Gov. Ricketts has issued an Executive Order to Loosen Unemployment Insurance Eligibility Requirements.

The Governor’s Address on Unemployment Insurance

The Nebraska Department of Labor is waiving the required work search requirement and the one week wait period for unemployment benefits for those who are unable to report to work due to closure or illness. The employer fee for short-term benefits is also waived. In addition, the State has expanded its Short-Time Compensation program to help reduce or prevent layoffs by providing prorated unemployment benefits to those still working but who have had their hours reduced.
More information can be accessed on the Department of Labor’s website at:

www.dol.nebraska.gov

If you are needing to temporarily lay-off your employees these resources are for you. Don’t Be Afraid to Call and Ask Questions to ensure you get the paperwork done right.

U.S. Chamber of Commerce:
The U.S. Chamber is working to inform and equip businesses with the most important and up-to-date information to prevent the spread of the virus and prepare businesses for the near and long-term impact.
Business Resources

U.S. Department of Labor:
The U.S. Department of Labor provides information on common issues employers and employees face when responding to influenza, pandemics, or other public health emergencies. Information for Employees and Employers

CDC Resources
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) provides extensive information and updates on how to prevent community spread. Below is specific guidance for community organizations, businesses, and event planners.

Community Organizations

Businesses

Community Events

News Stories:

First Presumptive Case of COVID-19 Identified in the Beatrice Area https://beatricedailysun.com/news/local/gage-county-has-first-presumed-positive-case-of-covid/article_702bd755-1a92-5269-b7c7-032259f8d827.html#tracking-source=home-trending

Governor Ricketts Issues Executive Order to Provide Relief to Restaurants and Bars during COVID-19 Emergency. Efforts to lift restrictions on restaurants and bars statewide and provide greater flexibility to serve Nebraskans during the current public health emergency. Announcement Link

The City of Beatrice suspends late fees and disconnections for non-payment through May 31, 2020. Please contact the Board of Public Works to inform them if you plan to delay your payment, they may be able to help you make additional arrangements so that you do not get further behind. Announcement Link
City of Beatrice, Gage County, Issue Joint Recommendation on Coronavirus, 3/20/20

What will the limitations likely be on people and businesses if cases of Covid-19 are found in the Beatrice area? Below is a link to the rules now being imposed on Douglas, Sarpy, and Washington Counties

Gov. Ricketts Announces Directed Health Measure for Cass, Douglas, Sarpy, & Washington Counties – Media Release Link
Link to The Official Guidance in effect for locations such as Beatrice Nebraska as of 1:00pm 3/19/20 The 10 person restrictions that are in place for some types of businesses, this applies to customers but does not include paid staff members.

Other News Links:
Nebraska Governors Announcement- How Everyone Can Help Stop Coronavirus, 3/17/20
Facebook announces $100 million grant program for small businesses impacted by coronavirus
Treasury and IRS to delay tax payment deadline by 90 days
Trump seeks stimulus package potentially worth more than $1 trillion, including direct payments to Americans and help for small businesses, 3/17/20
Fox News Article on Federal Actions aimed at helping Small Businesses, 3/18/20

These are certainly unprecedented times, we thank you for visiting our website.

Simply put you and our Community are at the heart of everything we do. As COVID-19 begins to have an increasingly significant impact on Beatrice and communities across the country, we are compiling existing resources, and items for our businesses and community as we all navigate this crisis.

We also encourage you to visit The Nebraska Department of Health & Human Resources for up to date health-related information.

👉 Follow Main Street Beatrice on Facebook for local business updates. Many places remain open, although in a limited capacity. All are working to keep you and their staff safe. #SupportLocalFirst #ShopLocalSafely #WeAreInThisTogether #NebraskaStrong #BeatriceNE
#DowntownBeatrice

Our prayers are with the hundreds of locals who are currently out of work as a result of this emergency, we all pray for a speedy end to this challenge.  Stay Safe Everyone!

Status on Local Restaurants, Bars, and Entertainment Venues:

You can help:
1) Order Take Out/Delivery 2) Buy Gift Cards 3) Tip Generously 4) Leave Reviews to your favorite local shops 5) Share your favorite local shops on social media

Downtown Locations:
4one8 Bar & Grill – Temporarily Closed during the crisis
Beatrice Movies  – Temporarily Closed during the crisis
The Black Crow Restaurant and Bar, Banquets and Catering – Carry Out Only
Country Cookin’ Cafe – Call ahead
Colleen’s Catering – Call ahead
Community Players Inc. – Online activities only
Dairy Queen Grill & Chill – Drive Through Only
Kabo Bar – Open, all events canceled
Kick-Shots – Open, all events canceled
The Mechanical Room – Carry-Out & limited seating
The Rail – Open
Shanghai Inn – Carry Out Only
Sifted Sweets – Call ahead
Stone Hollow Brewing Company – Carry-Out & Curbside Pick-Up, limited tap-house seating
Sunrise Bakery – Carry-Out & Delivery Only
Traubel’s Popcorn – Temporarily Closed during the crisis
Tall Tree Tastings – Carry-Out & limited seating
Valentino’s – Drive Through, Carry-Out & Delivery Only

Yellow Cab of Beatrice is offering delivery services to any open location, $7 flat rate. 402-806-2727

More locations at: Beatrice Chamber – Covid-19 Page Beatrice Daily Sun Delivery & Takeout Guide

Business Resources:

For our most recent email blast to businesses please visit: https://conta.cc/3dy4AAD

First of all, we are here to help – If you have questions or need help getting word to your customers/community let us know. We will use social media and other means to help you share news and updates.
Please send details or links to the items you want to be shared via: msothan@mainstreetbeatrice.org and info@mainstreetbeatrice.org Or call 402-223-3244
We have been working to share business posts on Facebook Let us know if you have a post we can share.

SBA Resources:
The Small Business Administration (SBA) released a toolkit offering guidance for businesses and employers to plan and respond to Coronavirus. They also offer the Economic Injury Disaster Loan program that provides small businesses with working capital loans of up to $2 million that can provide vital economic support to small businesses to help overcome the temporary loss of revenue they are experiencing.

Tool Kit

Loan Program

Emergency Preparedness

Federal Small Business Administration Disaster Loans are now available for Nebraska’s Businesses effected by Covid-19.

SBA Disaster Loan Information

These loans will be available directly through the SBA – plus many local lenders have been learning more about these programs and may be able to help you.
If you have not already done so – be sure to communicate with your lender about any difficulties you are having or expect to have – Many banks are extending lines of credit and providing other assistance in this difficult time. Do not be afraid to seek help!

Unemployment Insurance:
Gov. Ricketts has issued an Executive Order to Loosen Unemployment Insurance Eligibility Requirements.

The Governor’s Address on Unemployment Insurance

The Nebraska Department of Labor is waiving the required work search requirement and the one week wait period for unemployment benefits for those who are unable to report to work due to closure or illness. The employer fee for short-term benefits is also waived. In addition, the State has expanded its Short-Time Compensation program to help reduce or prevent layoffs by providing prorated unemployment benefits to those still working but who have had their hours reduced.
More information can be accessed on the Department of Labor’s website at:

www.dol.nebraska.gov

If you are needing to temporarily lay-off your employees these resources are for you. Don’t Be Afraid to Call and Ask Questions to ensure you get the paperwork done right.

U.S. Chamber of Commerce:
The U.S. Chamber is working to inform and equip businesses with the most important and up-to-date information to prevent the spread of the virus and prepare businesses for the near and long-term impact.
Business Resources

U.S. Department of Labor:
The U.S. Department of Labor provides information on common issues employers and employees face when responding to influenza, pandemics, or other public health emergencies. Information for Employees and Employers

CDC Resources
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) provides extensive information and updates on how to prevent community spread. Below is specific guidance for community organizations, businesses, and event planners.

Community Organizations

Businesses

Community Events

New Stories:

Governor Ricketts Issues Executive Order to Provide Relief to Restaurants and Bars during COVID-19 Emergency. Efforts to lift restrictions on restaurants and bars statewide and provide greater flexibility to serve Nebraskans during the current public health emergency. Announcement Link

The City of Beatrice suspends late fees and disconnections for non-payment through May 31, 2020. Please contact the Board of Public Works to inform them if you plan to delay your payment, they may be able to help you make additional arrangements, so that you do not get further behind. Announcement Link
City of Beatrice, Gage County, Issue Joint Recommendation on Coronavirus, 3/20/20

What will the limitations likely be on people and businesses if cases of Covid-19 are found in the Beatrice area? Below is a link to the rules now being imposed on Douglas, Sarpy, and Washington Counties

Gov. Ricketts Announces Directed Health Measure for Cass, Douglas, Sarpy, & Washington Counties – Media Release Link
Link to The Official Guidance in effect for locations such as Beatrice Nebraska as of 1:00pm 3/19/20 The 10 person restrictions that are in place for some types of businesses, this applies to customers but does not include paid staff members.

Other News Links:
Nebraska Governors Announcement- How Everyone Can Help Stop Coronavirus, 3/17/20
Facebook announces $100 million grant program for small businesses impacted by coronavirus
Treasury and IRS to delay tax payment deadline by 90 days
Trump seeks stimulus package potentially worth more than $1 trillion, including direct payments to Americans and help for small businesses, 3/17/20
Fox News Article on Federal Actions aimed at helping Small Businesses, 3/18/20

Beatrice Daily Sun Article by Monica Brich March 2, 2020

Development plans are being made at the prior Pink Elephant Used Furniture building in downtown Beatrice.

During a city council meeting Monday night, the council unanimously approved a Tax Increment Financing (TIF) project at 713 Court St.

Craig Zarybnicky said he and his wife, Casey, intend to put a two bedroom, owner-occupied loft-style apartment on the second floor, and then build the main floor to suit a tenant to be determined.

City administrator Tobias Tempelmeyer said it was the fourth public meeting of the process.

“It’s been to the [Community Redevelopment Authority], planning and zoning and back to CRA and now to the city council. Assuming you approve it tonight, it will go back to CRA for final approval,” Tempelmeyer said.

Tempelmeyer noted that the project is TIF eligible because the building is located in the redevelopment area downtown, and that CRA recommended approval.

“One of the things we’ve pushed for, especially lately is having downtown housing, upper-level housing, trying to get that back and become more vibrant downtown,” Tempelmeyer said.

Article continues… To read the full article and see additional pictures please visit the Beatrice Daily Sun: Article Link

Beatrice Daily Sun Article by Scott Koperski February 20, 2020

A downtown Beatrice building that seemed destined for demolition before undergoing an extensive renovation has caught the eye of elected officials.

Congressman Adrian Smith toured Beatrice’s Mercantile Building at 301 Court St. on Thursday morning as part of a trip through the area.

And while Smith didn’t have a beer during his tour of the building, which is anchored by Stone Hollow Brewing, he did get an inside look at one of the biggest success stories from the area when it comes to putting an old building to use.

“It’s great to see this historic preservation and it’s also convergent to a newly rejuvenated space that generates some economic growth,” he said. “It’s great for the community and everyone involved.

Article continues… To read the full article and see additional pictures please visit the Beatrice Daily Sun: Article Link