It has been a very long and uncertain time for many non-essential businesses in and around the Orlando area that have been forced to close out of an abundance of caution, but there may be a light at the end of the tunnel.

©WESH 2 Disney World’s Magic Kingdom During It’s Temporary Closure

And while Florida is still currently under a 30-day stay at home order, Orange County Mayor Jerry Demmings says he is getting ready to explore re-opening some businesses again once Florida Governor DeSantis’ order expires on May 2nd.

As reported earlier by ClickOrlando.com, Mayor Demmings is in the early stages of assembling a task force to begin a slow and gradual reopening of businesses throughout Orange Country. Comprised of 40-45 people, the team of experts he plans on recruiting will be leaders from many of the industries that have been hit the hardest.

Flag Raising during the Closure

When asked who he would like to be included in these discussions Mayor Demings responded, “Small businesses like hair salons and barbershops, to realtors, to theme parks, to professional services.” He also mentioned The Walt Disney Company by name.

Magic Kingdom Entrance

Disney is Orange County’s largest employer, and Mayor Demmings added, “In terms of where they are with their experience with the pandemic, they are probably ahead of us.” Disney has been handling this crisis in other counties for many months and could provide critical insight for how to proceed cautiously with re-opening efforts.

Disney’s BoardWalk Inn

Just recently, Disney has begun reopening parts of Shanghai Disneyland, the first of the Disney parks to temporarily shut down back in January. “They’ve experienced some things — in terms of the planning process — that I believe could be beneficial and constructive to us as we begin to respond to the very uniqueness of our county,” Mayor Demmings said.

Shanghai Disneyland

Read more about Shanghai Disneyland’s new health screening protocol here!

Today, President Trump is expected to issue governors more guidelines as to the re-opening of businesses and he is hopeful some states might be able to reopen before the initial May 1st deadline he issued previously. Meanwhile, Mayor Demmings is expected to provide additional details about his re-opening task force Friday. We’ll keep you updated with any additional information as soon as it’s released!

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