SOUTHAMPTON, N.Y. — With all non-essential businesses ordered to close Sunday across New York state due to the continued rise in confirmed new coronavirus cases, questions have swirled about what is necessary and what isn't.
One issue, especially in the East End, has centered on whether or not locals will be allowed to continue working. the county and state have been inundated with calls, according to Suffolk County Steve Bellone – who said New York State had clarified the issue.
“This is a business that will continue to operate,” Bellone said, adding that the need to mow lawns and other property could become a public health issue, especially because of concerns about ticks and mosquito-borne diseases. Social distancing guidelines must be followed, he said.
Vector control remains critical, added Suffolk County Legislator Bridget Fleming.
Also, Bellone said, workers in the landscaping industry are among one of the “most vulnerable groups in our society.”
While Bellone had originally said landscaping could only continue for lawn maintenance and pest control, but not for ornamental plantings, on Tuesday, Fleming said the state will now allow all landscaping to continue.
Clarity is still needed on the construction issue, Fleming said.
