Jacksonville businesses looking for clarification from city on essential vs. non essential guidelines

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — On Thursday, questioned poured into the Action News Jax newsroom just hours before Jacksonville’s “stay at home” order went into effect at 12:01 a.m. on Friday.

Action News Jax reported Wednesday when Mayor Lenny Curry and Governor Ron DeSantis ordered the closure of all “non-essential” businesses -- an effort to stop the spread of the coronavirus.

Paula Zeman, owner of Yard Transformers described the guidelines as, “Just kind of cray, we’re not really sure.”

Zeman explained she and her four employees rely on the income from their contracts.

Under the guidelines posted to the City of Jacksonville’s website, landsapers are considered “essential” personnel but that doesn’t mean Zeman’s company can complete their jobs.

She explained, “We don’t know if our suppliers are going to be able to remain open and if they’re going to be there.”

RELATED: Coronavirus pandemic in Jacksonville: Which businesses are considered essential?

Action News Jax reached out to the City of Jacksonville.

A spokesperson said suppliers to essential businesses are OK to stay open, without shutting any retail entrances.

The spokesperson added that businesses are allowed on the property to pick up needed supplies.

Zeman said she wants to work, as long as she’s in compliance.

The business owner added, “I don’t want to use the federal funds that have been set aside for small businesses. I’d rather it got to small businesses that truly do have a to shut down – that aren’t essential, that need it.”

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