Jackson Mayor Scott Conger: All bars and nightclubs closed immediately

JACKSON, Tenn. — In response to the coronavirus pandemic, Jackson Mayor Scott Conger is amending his original declaration of the State of Emergency.

Thursday afternoon, Mayor Conger says all city venues will be closed to the public. This is effective immediately. City Hall will remain open, but visitors will be screened.

Mayor Conger says all restaurants must limit their maximum capacity to no more than 100 people. Plus, no standing is allowed at bar services in restaurants. All bars and nightclubs will be closed.

“In light of everything that is going on, we know people will be displaced and employees are at risk of losing their jobs,” said Mayor Conger.

Richard R.C. Hughes owns the Tap Bar and Grill, a popular nightlife spot in Jackson.

“How would anybody like their income to be ripped from under them? I got musicians counting on that money. I got staff counting on that money,” said Hughes.

The co-owner of Rafferty’s restaurant says they switched to carry out only Tuesday, eliminating 80% of their staff.

“I was distraught. It was rough. It was very, very rough. Hopefully, we can serve them until this crisis is over and open up again,” said Joey Carroll, Co General Manager of Rafferty’s.

“We will take care of each other and get through this together,” said Mayor Conger.

Mayor Conger suggests all grocery stores and pharmacies to allow the first hour of business for shoppers 62-years-old and up only.

All venues open to the public will operate at 50% capacity.

Mayor Conger says they are working on having possible COVID-19 testing at the Jackson Fairgrounds once they have more resources.

He also says Englewood Baptist Church will provide a daycare center for West Tennessee Healthcare providers along with the Westwood Community Center and T.R. White Sportsplex.

See the Mayor’s full statement in the video below.