HERKIMER, N.Y. – The Herkimer County Chamber of Commerce held a focus group meeting Friday morning, to discuss reopening procedures in the area, and get feedback from local businesses.
Some joined the group via Zoom, other came in person, wearing masks and practicing social distancing.
A few of the topics mentioned at the meeting included finding personal protective equipment for employees, navigating loan programs and the best approach to enforcing mask mandates.
Executive Director Michele Hummel says financial struggles are a common issue, and the chamber plans to help put packages together to help members reopen.
“It's a struggle, and I think that the pricing has gone up through the roof, so that is an issue. We're trying to actually put some packages together. We're looking for some grant opportunities, and we're going to be providing solutions for our members. We're going to be delivering packages out to them to help them reopen,” said Hummel.
Hummel’s Office Plus has been a local resource for PPE, and Hummel says the company has sold more cleaning products in the past six months, than in the past six years.
The meeting was held at 9 a.m. at the chamber office, 420 E. German St. in Herkimer.