There have been several press releases from certain localities that have lifted the ban on commercial lawn services. We would like to help clarify some of these orders as well as inform you of the real time information that is currently prohibiting us from performing regular services.
WiltonScape currently offers services in both Wayne and Oakland counties, with a total of 10+ cities that we operate in on a weekly basis. So far the state government has reacted to the novel coronavirus by shutting down all areas of our economy that are deemed non-essential. If anybody does not perform services that directly combat the continued spread of the virus, or that maintain the safety of communities, they are instructed to "stay home."
Some cities have expressed and shared their concern that landscapers should be able to begin seasonal operations and feel, as we do, that we can do so safely. The landscaping industry and more specifically lawn maintenance services can be done with relatively small crews while easily maintaining and upholding the CDC's guidelines for safe work. With that being said, our state government has the ability to prohibit these services and hold the local communities responsible to uphold these orders.
As of today we have noticed rising support from organizations associated with the lawn and landscape industry in our state. These organizations have expressed a mandate to lift the state orders restricting commercial lawn maintenance services. Here is the most recent, local information as of April 21, 2020 (these cities listed are some of the critical areas within our operation):
Livonia: There is no direct statement on the community website concerning Livonia's individual stance on lawn maintenance services (visit page). We have, however, reached out via email to city hall and their response was:
"Thank you for contacting City Hall. The Governor's Order is state wide and has the final say. Individual cities do not have the authority to override the Governor's Order. She was very clear in her Press Conference on Thursday afternoon that lawn care companies were not to be in operation until after the Order is lifted."
Plymouth: On April 15th, the city of Plymouth put out a statement that lifted restrictions on local companies performing lawn maintenance services. However, as of yesterday April 20th, 2020, they rescinded their original statement. You can view the .pdf document that's been uploaded to their community site here. Here's a direct quote from the city document:
"This has been a source of concern to Plymouth residents who fear they will not be able to maintain their property. Although homeowners may continue to cut their grass and take care of their own yards, many rely on a landscaping company to provide these services. This has prompted some residents to ask the City to override the order. However, it’s important to note that the City of Plymouth does not have the authority to override a Governor’s Executive Order."
Westland: There is no direct statement on their community website that indicates a lift on the Governors order. The website can be viewed here.
Wayne: There is no direct statement on their community website that indicates a lift on the Governors order. The website can be viewed here.
Many additional communities throughout the southeast region of our state have spoken out against the Governor's most recent executive order. At this time, however, we need to follow the guidance set from the local communities that we operate in. The most important city to note is Livonia as this is where our business location and license are based. Without a direct change from the Governor or from our local officials in Livonia, we need to continue delaying our startup for the season.
Recently the Governor has expressed that she plans to begin reopening the economy as early as May 1st. This week in particular we expect to see some information released that will help clarify what that plan is. We are anticipating that we will be permitted to begin services come May 1st, 2020. We urge you to stay up to date with the Governor's press releases as that will be the most important information we can use.
We understand all the concerns arising from this pandemic and are doing everything we can to ensure a safe and quick startup.
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