Amid Pandemic, Vienna Businesses Share Worries In Survey

VIENNA, VA — A survey of largely small businesses in Vienna indicated many are worried about staying open amid the coronavirus health crisis.

The survey, open from April 22 to May 15, generated a response from 94 businesses. Of these, 75 percent have 10 or fewer employees, 80 percent are women-owned and 27 percent are minority-owned.

Results showed 59 percent are worried or very worried about the health crisis and staying in business. Even further, 22 percent expressed concern about remaining viable in one to three months. Most indicated they experienced revenue loss of at least 71 percent in the survey timeline.

Many respondents said they have adapted to social distancing guidelines. Among the strategies for staying in business during the pandemic include providing delivery service and contactless takeout, raising funds for local charities and hosting virtual gatherings.

Most businesses would like support to help operations during reopening. The survey found 75 percent of respondents are interested in assistance such as marketing, branding, grants and other funding.

"The survey results show how important it will be for the Town to continue to take meaningful and impactful action to support our business community and, especially small and independently owned businesses and entrepreneurs in Vienna," said Natalie Monkou, the Town of Vienna's economic development manager. "Economic resiliency will be key to recovery, and we are committed to implementing initiatives to support our businesses over the coming weeks."

The Town of Vienna and Fairfax County previously extended their due date for the real estate tax payment to Aug. 28. In addition, Vienna's Town Council opted to waive penalty and interest fees for late payments of meal taxes through June 13 for April and May meal tax payment. The on-time payment discount for meals taxes was also increased from 3 percent to 10 percent.

Vienna small businesses can apply for the $25 million Fairfax Relief Initiative to Support Employers (Fairfax RISE) when applications open. Grants may be used to pay for employee compensation and benefits, working capital, equipment, inventory, rent and other critical operating expenses. Applications are expected to become available in June.

More resources for Vienna businesses are listed on the Town of Vienna and Vienna Business Association websites.

Town government is working with businesses and regional partners to prepare for reopening. Gov. Ralph Northam indicated he will let Northern Virginia enter phase one of reopening on Friday, May 29.

Under phase one, restaurants and beverage establishments can offer outdoor dining at 50 percent capacity, and non-essential retail may be open at 50 percent capacity. Personal care and grooming businesses may open with one customer per service provider. Indoor fitness centers must remain closed, but outdoor fitness services are allowed. Places of worship can continue drive-in services or hold services inside with 50 percent capacity.

With Friday's reopening, face masks will be required for individuals aged 10 and up at indoor public places, places where people congregate and public transportation. There are exceptions for eating and drinking at restaurants, and anyone with a health condition that prevents them from wearing a face mask will not have to wear one.

The Town of Vienna plans to conduct another business survey later this year when reopening plans are underway.

SEE ALSO:

• Vienna Businesses Open, Closed During Coronavirus Situation
• Caffe Amouri 5K Feeds Vienna Families With Social Distancing