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Coronavirus (COVID-19) Updates
The City of Cocoa is dedicated to keeping our residents, business owners and customers safe by actively monitoring developments related to the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. The City’s main priority is communicating best health practices to minimize the spread of COVID-19 in our community and amongst employees to ensure the delivery of our core municipal services.
We are working closely with partners at Brevard County Government and the Florida Department of Health to coordinate appropriate planning and response efforts and to share information with you regularly. We would like to thank you for your cooperation and strongly encourage you to continue following the Governor’s Executive Order and the Centers for Disease Control social distancing and prevention guidelines to limit the spread of COVID-19 in our community. As we face this unprecedented health crisis, the City of Cocoa would like you to know that we are here for you. Continue to check this website for the latest information.
Updated November 12, 2020 at 9:00 am:
- Face Covering Requirement
- Employment/ Financial Assistance
- Florida's Recovery Plan
- Contact the City of Cocoa
- City Operations
- City Council Meetings
- Testing Information
- Prevention
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Business Resources
- Postponed or Cancelled Events
- Additional Information & Resources
Emergency Order No. 13-2020: Face Covering Requirement
The Cocoa City Council passed Emergency Ordinance no. 13-2020 on Wednesday, August 12, 2020 requiring face coverings in places open to the public inside the City limits of Cocoa consistent with the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and Florida Department of Health (FLDOH) guidelines to help slow the spread of the COVID-19 virus locally. The ordinance was extended by the Cocoa City Council on Wednesday, September 9, 2020 at the Cocoa City Council meeting, again at the October 13, 2020 City Council Meeting and again at the November 10, 2020 City Council Meeting. It will be discussed again in December. The ordinance took effect on Saturday, August 15, 2020.
Click here to view the ordinance in it's entirety.
Signs for businesses to place at their establishment can be downloaded and printed by clicking the button above. We will also have copies available at the front security desk of City Hall between the hours of 8a-5p, Monday through Friday if you would like to pick one up.
Residents Financially Impacted by COVID-19 May Be Eligible for A/C, Heating Unit Replacement Funds
Homeowners who have been financially impacted by the COVID-19 public health emergency could be eligible for funding to assist with replacement of heating, ventilation and air-conditioning systems under a program implemented Friday by Brevard County’s Housing and Human Services Department.
There is also potential under the program to provide case-by-case assistance with roof replacement and/or septic issues. Applicants must be income eligible to receive assistance.
Applications for the Coronavirus Relief Fund Small Repair Program, funded through an allocation from the State of Florida’s Housing Finance Corporation, are now available at the County’s Housing and Human Services Department, Building C, at the Brevard County Government Center, 2725 Judge Fran Jamieson Way, Viera, 32940, Community Action Agency locations, all 17 County public libraries and at the following community centers within Neighborhood Strategy Areas:
- Cuyler Community Center, 2329 Harry T. Moore Ave., Mims, 32754.
- Walter Butler Community Center, 4201 N Cocoa Blvd., Cocoa, 32927
- Cocoa Library, 308 Forrest Ave., Cocoa, 32922, or Ag Center, 3695 Lake Drive, Cocoa, 32926
- Woody Simpson Community Center, 1590 Schoolhouse St., Merritt Island, 32953
- Cocoa West Recreation Complex, 4000, 230 S. Burnett Road, Cocoa, 32926
- Micco Park Community Center, 3700 Allen Ave., Micco, 32976
The program is limited to income eligible applicants at or below 120% of area median income (for example, $83,040 for a family of 4). Under the assistance program, the County will not be able to serve homeowners who reside in municipalities that have received an allocation of funds from the state, including Palm Bay, Melbourne, Cocoa, and Titusville.
Completed applications can be mailed to the HHS Office (2725 Judge Fran Jamieson Way, B-103, Viera, FL 32940), dropped off at our office, or dropped off at any of the County Libraries. Beginning Tuesday of next week (10/27/2020) the application will be available for download from the County Website and by Wednesday (10/28/2020) residents will be able to complete the application entirely online.
Brevard County Government Approves Housing Assistance Funding
Brevard County Government approved $4.4 million in funding for mortgage/rental assistance, up to $2,400 per month per family for up to 3 months for Brevard County residents negatively impacted by COVID-19. Visit the Brevard County Housing & Human Services Department website for more information and application.
Brevard County is also offering Small Business assistance and food assistance for those impacted by COVID-19. More information can be found on the Brevard County CARES page.
Reemployment Assistance
Reemployment Assistance benefits are available to Floridians who have been negatively impacted as a result of the mitigation efforts to stop the spread of COVID-19. Eligible individuals include those who have lost their job through no fault of their own, are quarantined by a medical professional or a government agency, laid off or sent home without pay for an extended period by their employer, or caring for an immediate family member who is diagnosed with COVID-19.
Reemployment Assistance benefits, formerly known as Unemployment Compensation, can be filed online: www.floridajobsresources.com
Governor Ron DeSantis Announces Phase 3 of State’s Reopening Plan
On Friday, September 25, Governor DeSantis held a press conference to announce Phase 3 of the Safe. Smart. Step-by-Step. Plan for Florida’s Recovery. Florida’s move to Phase 3 will remove restrictions imposed during the first and second stages of the reopening plan.
Effective immediately, Phase 3 of Governor DeSantis’ Plan for Florida’s Recovery includes the following:
- All remaining state-level restrictions on businesses, including those on restaurants and bars, will be lifted and businesses may operate at 100% capacity.
- No COVID-19 emergency ordinance may prevent individuals from working or operating a business.
- Local governments may not impose COVID-19 related restrictions on restaurants limiting capacity to less than 50% indoor capacity. No food service establishments may be limited to less than 100% capacity without an approved economic impact statement and public health justification for each limitation or restriction.
- Local governments may not collect fines associated with COVID-related mandates.
View Governor DeSantis’ full press conference here: https://thefloridachannel.org/videos/9-25-20-press-conference-on-coronavirus-covid-19/
View Executive Order 20-244 here: https://www.flgov.com/wp-content/uploads/orders/2020/EO_20-244.pdf
One Goal One Florida
Governor Ron DeSantis announced One Goal One Florida, an initiative to unite Floridians and urge them to work together in the fight against COVID-19.
“COVID-19 has been a significant challenge for all Floridians but I’m 100% confident we can, and will, overcome this challenge,” said Governor DeSantis. “To that end, I’m asking all Floridians to join me in this important effort – One Goal One Florida.”
Governor DeSantis is asking all Floridians to follow these simple, yet effective guidelines:
- Protect the vulnerable, including the elderly and those with underlying medical conditions.
- Practice proper hygiene, including washing your hands.
- Practice social distancing by avoiding closed spaces and crowded places.
- Wear a mask if you are in close contact with others.
Watch the Governor’s announcement.
Governor Ron DeSantis issues Phase 1 of Florida’s Recovery Plan
- Executive Order
- Slides from press conference
- 4/29/2020 Press Conference Outlining Phase 1
- Frequently Asked Questions about Phase 1
- Executive Order 20-120
- Department of Business & Professional Regulation Information for Barbershops
- Department of Business & Professional Regulation Frequently Asked Questions Related to Barbershops and Cosmetology Salons
Governor Ron DeSantis issues Phase 2 of Florida’s Recovery Plan
- City Clerk’s Office (Passports, Public Records, Cocoa City Council)
- Phone: (321) 433-8480
- E-mail: CityClerk@CocoaFL.org
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Utility Customer Service (Water bill payments, Service requests, etc.)
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Community Services
All inspections will continue at this time, please contact the Building/Permitting office to schedule an inspection. If you need to pick up a permit, please call (321) 433-8501 to make an appointment.
- Planning:
- E-mail: Planning@CocoaFL.org
- Phone: (321) 433-8501
- Building/Permitting:
- E-mail: BuildingDept@CocoaFL.org
- Phone: (321) 433-8501
- Business Tax Receipts:
- E-mail: BuildingDept@CocoaFL.org
- Phone: (321) 433-8502
- Economic Development:
- E-mail: EconomicDevelopment@CocoaFL.org
- Phone: (321) 433-8509
- Planning:
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City Manager’s Office
- Phone: (321) 433-8737
- E-mail: kfrederick@cocoafl.org
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Leisure Services
- Phone: (321) 639-3500
- E-mail: LeisureServices@cocoafl.org
- Website: www.CocoaFL.org/Leisureservices
- Virtual tours of both the Porcher House and Civic Center are available on our website.
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Utilities Administration
- Phone: (321) 433-8700
- E-mail: Utildept@cocoafl.org
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Public Works
- Phone: (321) 433-8770
- E-mail: PublicWorks@cocoafl.org
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Human Resources
- Phone: (321) 433-8440
- E-mail: HumanResources@cocoafl.org
- Cocoa Police Department Lobby
- For all EMERGENCIES, please dial 911
- To make a police report, please go to the door on the east side of the building
- To make arrangements to pick up property, please call 321-637-6304
- To obtain a copy of a police report please call 321-637-6300 or email your request to cocoarecords@cocoapolice.com
- Cocoa Fire Department Lobby for each station
- For all EMERGENCIES, please dial 911
- Each station including the lobby area is closed to public access
- Phone: (321) 639-7605
- E-mail: sbyrd@cocoafl.org
- All City facilities are back open to the public and Cocoa City Council meetings are allowing the public to attend in person. Face coverings must be worn and are still required to enter any City facility.
- May 19, 2020 - On Tuesday, May 19, 2020, all City of Cocoa facilities will open on a limited basis to the general public in accordance with Governor DeSantis’ Phased Plan to Re-open Florida. However, residents and customers are encouraged to continue to utilize our virtual services including online bill pay and e-mailing or calling City staff for information or for an appointment. Information on how to utilize virtual services for each department is listed below. Read full press release.
- May 18, 2020 - The City of Cocoa recognizes that many of our utility customers have been financially impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Water shut-offs were temporarily suspended during this crisis in an attempt to assist our customers through this critical time. If you have a past-due balance on your water utility account, please reach out to Customer Service by phone at (321) 433-8400 or e-mail at customerservice@cocoafl.org to establish an interest-free payment plan and avoid any service interruption beginning June 2, 2020.
- May 14, 2020 - Cocoa City Council made the very difficult decision to cancel the annual Independence Day Fireworks Display and concert with the Brevard Symphony Orchestra scheduled for Saturday, July 4, 2020 at Riverfront Park in Cocoa Village. Read full press release.
- May 1, 2020 - In response to Governor DeSantis’ Recovery Plan for Florida, the City of Cocoa will begin a phased approach to re-open City facilities including City Hall. Beginning Monday, May 4, 2020, City facilities will be open to the public by appointment only for essential services. This will remain in effect for approximately two weeks. We will continue to offer all City services as we have been throughout this COVID-19 pandemic. For information on how to make an appointment or how to utilize City services virtually, visit www.CocoaFL.org/covid19. Cocoa’s park facilities including restrooms and playground equipment will begin to re-open on Monday, May 4, 2020 as well.
Public meetings will continue virtually for the time being. Citizens and Cocoa business owners are still able to participate in Cocoa’s public meetings by visiting our agenda portal on our website, www.CocoaFL.org and clicking on the eComment feature on our agendas or by e-mailing meeting@cocoafl.org. All public meetings are streamed live both on our website and via the City of Cocoa’s YouTube Channel.
The City of Cocoa has coordinated a group of business owners from various industry sectors to solicit information about the economic recovery efforts of businesses in the Cocoa community. This group will meet to discuss COVID-19 impacts to businesses and help revive Cocoa’s economy as Florida plans a phased approach to re-opening. The group will provide information related to their business needs as the City works to develop an economic recovery plan.
- April 16, 2020 - Per CDC guidance Brevard County Government has made the decision to close playgrounds. The playgrounds in the City of Cocoa are maintained by Brevard County Central Area Parks & Recreation and therefore will be closed to the public.
- April 3, 2020 - Many of our public works and field services employees are out in the City performing essential job functions. To protect yourself and these staff members, we ask that you stay 6 ft away to adhere to CDC recommendations or call the numbers provided for our various City services on the right of this page.
- April 2, 2020 at 5:00 pm - All City of Cocoa parks will be closed to public gatherings in accordance with the Safer at Home order from the Governor. The parks will remain open to pedestrian passage ONLY. Plan ahead if you will be utilizing our parks as the restrooms will be closed and water fountains have been turned off.
- March 25, 2020 - Cocoa City Council meetings changes implemented due to COVID-19.
- March 23, 2020 - All City of Cocoa facilities including City Hall are closed to the public in order to keep our employees and residents safe. Limited services requested by the public will be by appointment only. City employees will also continue to fulfill requests for service either by phone or electronically. The City has put processes in place to continue service to water customers, the development community, businesses and our residents. These processes will be adjusted as necessary to allow us to provide service to our citizens during the Coronavirus/COVID-19 emergency.
- Early March 2020 Updates:
- The City of Cocoa has enhanced already stringent sanitation procedures by our custodial staff for all City facilities to protect our employees.
- We are equipping and training our employees with gloves, cleaning supplies and hand sanitizer as available.
- City buildings that will have limited public access have been equipped with temporary hand washing stations.
- The splash pad at Riverfront Park has been shut off until further notice out of an abundance of caution.
- The Water Customer Service Division has suspended water shut-offs for non-payment until further notice.
- Events at City Facilities
- In accordance with the Center for Disease Control in order to keep the community and our employees safe, City Council has approved that all events and non-essential public meetings scheduled at City owned facilities from March 17, 2020 through May 11, 2020 be cancelled or rescheduled to a future date to help prevent the spread of the COVID-19 virus. We will reassess any further postponements at the April 22, 2020 City Council Meeting. If an event chooses to cancel, we will be offering full refunds on any fees paid to the City for that event. View a list of the special events/meetings were scheduled for this time period.
- For private rentals please contact our Leisure Services Division at (321) 639-3500 to reschedule your event or to seek a refund.
- All non-essential public meetings have been postponed until further notice. Cocoa City Council meetings will still be held at their regular meeting date.
- The Historic Cocoa Village Playhouse has made the following announcement regarding performances:
- In light of the international health crisis, we want you to know that the health and well being of our patrons and volunteers is of the utmost importance.
Effective immediately, the Playhouse is following the City of Cocoa’s directive to honor the recommendations of the CDC to cancel mass gatherings greater than 10 people for the next eight weeks. As of today (3/17/20), the Playhouse schedule of performances is suspended through May 11, 2020.
Our entire calendar of performances will be adjusted to resume after May 11, 2020. This will be reevaluated over the upcoming weeks and will align with the City of Cocoa’s direction.
We will post a new calendar on all electronic platforms as soon as possible. We ask you to be patient with us as we work to reschedule our programming and that you support us by attending the new dates established. If you are unable to attend, we ask that you accept a gift certificate to be redeemed for a future production. Our Box Office team will be working diligently with each of you.
The only way we can survive this is with your help.
- In light of the international health crisis, we want you to know that the health and well being of our patrons and volunteers is of the utmost importance.
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The City of Cocoa is working with our local businesses to continue to communicate vital information during this time. Many businesses in our community are now offering curbside pick-up services. With the assistance of the Historic Cocoa Village Main Street Association we have determined temporary pick-up locations for these businesses in the Historic Cocoa Village business district that will be offering the curbside service. Many businesses will remain open with enhanced cleaning efforts to keep patrons safe. So please continue to support our local businesses in any way that you can during this time.
Cocoa City Council meetings are back open to the public attending, with social distancing guidelines in place until further notice. in order to continue to meet the guidance from State and Federal officials as it relates to social distancing and preventing the spread of the COVID-19 virus, chairs in Council Chambers will be spread apart to maximize distance between attendees and masks will be provided in the lobby area. There are multiple ways the public can still participate in the meetings without coming in person:
- Link to the online agenda for Cocoa City Council Meetings. Ecomments will be accepted up until 30 minutes prior to the scheduled meeting.
- Link to the City of Cocoa, Florida Youtube Channel where the Cocoa City Council Meetings are live streamed.
- E-mail meeting@cocoafl.org to submit comments for Cocoa City Council Meetings.
Special testing event:
Free COVID-19 Testing, Quick Turnaround Results Available Oct. 31-Nov. 2
The Florida Department of Health-Brevard, in coordination with Brevard County Emergency Management, will provide free community COVID-19 nasal PCR (Polymerase chain reaction) testing, with quick turnaround results, at three separate locations this Saturday, Oct. 31, through Monday, Nov. 2, a various locations throughout the county.
No appointment is required, and walk-up and drive-thru operations will be available. Testing hours will be from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Test results will be available within a 36-hour period, but depending on demand could be available in as little as an hour.
The FDOH Mobile Testing Bus will be on location at the following sites and dates:
* Lipscomb Community Center, 3316 Monroe St., Melbourne 32901, Saturday, Oct. 31.
* Brevard County Extension Services, 3695 Lake Dr., Cocoa, 32926, Sunday, Nov. 1.
* Cape Canaveral Library, 201 Polk Ave., Cape Canaveral, 32920, Monday, Nov. 2.
Testing is for all ages (parental consent is required for minors).
Testing
Do you have symptoms consistent with COVID-19 and need to know how to proceed? Use the self-checker found on the CDC’s COVID-19 website to check your symptoms and discover the next steps you should take.
Brevard County is offering drive-through COVID-19 testing at these sites with the following criteria:
- Eastern Florida State College – Palm Bay Campus (250 Community College Parkway, Use the entrance from San Filippo Dr. SE & Jupiter Blvd.)
- Free, drive-through testing, no appointment required.
- Testing offered 7 days/week, 9am – 5pm.
- Testing available for adults and children of all ages.
- Insurance information will be requested but is not required to receive a test.
- There will be no copay or any fee charged.
- Identification is no longer required but does expedite the process.
- Florida Department of Health: Brevard
- Florida Department of Health in Brevard County will offer appointment-only COVID-19 testing to individuals with or without symptoms.
- Testing is offered Monday through Friday, from 8:15 a.m. - 12:00 pm at the Viera clinic (2555 Judge Fran Jamieson Way). To schedule an appointment, call 321-454-7141.
- Testing available for adults and children of all ages.
- Health First Pro-Health & Fitness (255 Borman Drive, Merritt Island)
- Monday through Saturday, 9a-12p
- Appointment required, call 321-434-3131.
- Parrish Healthcare
- Appointment required for locations, call 321-268-6139 or text "covid test" to 321-204-1699.
- Locations are rotated throughout the week.
- Tuesday, 1:30-3:30pm, at the Parrish Health and Fitness Center Parking lot, 2210 Cheney Hwy, Titusville.
- Wednesday, 12-3pm, at the Greater St. James Missionary Baptist Church, grass lot south of church, 2396 Harry T. Moore Ave., Mims
- Thursday, 12-1pm, at the Harry T. Moore Social Services Center parking lot, 725 S. Deleon Ave., Titusville
- Friday, 9am-12pm, at the Parrish Medical Offices parking lot, 7075 US 1 Port St. John
- Saturday, 9-11am, at the Gibson Youth Center parking lot, 835 Sycamore St. Titusville
If you are exhibiting symptoms, or have questions about COVID-19, please contact The Florida Department of Health’s COVID-19 hotline (available 24/7) at 1-888-779-6121 or reach out via email at COVID-19@flhealth.gov.
Prevention
The CDC has issued general warnings to the public to help stop the spread of the virus:
- The best way to prevent illness is to avoid being exposed to this virus.
- Social distancing (meaning 6 feet away from others will help prevent the spread!)
- Stay safe. Stay home. Stay Connected.
- Between people who are in close contact with one another (within about 6 feet).
- Through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes.
- These droplets can land in the mouths or noses of people who are nearby or possibly be inhaled into the lungs.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds especially after you have been in a public place, or after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.
- If soap and water are not readily available, use a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol. Cover all surfaces of your hands and rub them together until they feel dry.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
- Put distance between yourself and other people.
- Stay home if you are sick, except to get medical care.
- Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze or use the inside of your elbow.
- Throw used tissues in the trash.
- Clean AND disinfect frequently touched surfaces daily. This includes tables, doorknobs, light switches, countertops, handles, desks, phones, keyboards, toilets, faucets, and sinks.
- If surfaces are dirty, clean them: Use detergent or soap and water prior to disinfection.
- How many cases of COVID-19 are there in Brevard County and in Cocoa?
- What are the symptoms and complications that COVID-19 can cause?
- How does the COVID-19 virus spread?
- What steps can my family take to reduce our risk of getting COVID-19?
- How can my family and I prepare for COVID-19?
- How come the City of Cocoa is not on our local news with updates?
- How can I still participate in the Council Meetings without being able to be there in person?
- Will there be any considerations for food stamp requirements?
- Is our water safe to drink?
- What happens if a Utility Worker at the water plant contracts the virus?
- Does the City have a contingency fund to help get through this pandemic and continue basic City services?
- How is Cocoa working with other agencies throughout the County and State to make sure services are maintained and information is communicated?
- Does the City of Cocoa have it's own Emergency Manager or do you just coordinate with the County?
- Why haven't you shut down the City?
- What is the City of Cocoa doing to protect it's employees?
- Should I use soap and water or a hand sanitizer to protect against COVID-19?
- What cleaning products should I use to protect against COVID-19?
- Are children more at risk?
- How should parents talk to children about COVID-19?
- Do I need to boil my water?
- Can I get COVID-19 from wastewater or sewage?
- Do wastewater treatment plants treat COVID-19?
- Should wastewater workers take extra precautions to protect themselves from the COVID-19 virus?
- Is it okay to flush disinfecting wipes?
Brevard County Offers Small Business Assistance Grants
BREVARD COUNTY, FL. – The application period for small businesses and nonprofit organizations to apply for grants of up to $10,000 to offset expenses and lost revenue related to the COVID-19 public health emergency has been extended until further notice by the Brevard County Board of County Commissioners.
Applications are available at www.brevardfl.gov/BrevardCARES.
To be eligible through the Small Business and Nonprofit Economic Relief Program, the small business:
- Must be physically located in Brevard County
- Must have had 50 or fewer employees as of January 1, 2020
- Must have been negatively impacted financially by the COVID-19 public health emergency
- Must be enrolled in the U.S. Department of Homeland Security E-Verify program
- Applicant’s revenue losses or expenses utilized to establish program eligibility and grant amount must not have been reimbursed through the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL), Small Business Administration (SBA) Debt Relief Program or other similar federal and state programs.
Nonprofits that are eligible must be a 501(c)(3), 501(c)(6) or a 501(c)(19) as designated by Internal Revenue Code.
It's important to note:
- Businesses and Nonprofits are eligible to apply even if they have received other forms of assistance.
- Money received through the County's Small Business and Nonprofit Economic Relief Program are grants, not loans, and therefore do not need to be paid back.
- There is adequate funding available to help businesses and nonprofits that qualify.
On July 7, 2020, the Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) allocated $10 million through the CARES Act fund for local governments to a Small Business and Non Profit Economic Relief Program. CARES Act funding will be made available to small businesses and nonprofit organizations that meet eligibility requirements established by the BOCC for Brevard’s Small Business and Nonprofit Economic Relief Program and Specific priorities intended to advance economic development in Brevard County.
For more information, call 321-350-9194 between the hours of 8 a.m. and 5 p.m.
Personal Protection Equipment (PPE) Kits Available for Small Businesses
10/27/20 Update from Brevard County:
BREVARD COUNTY, FL. – Brevard County Government has three events planned in November to distribute free Personal Protection Equipment to small businesses, retailers and restaurants.
Distributions will be held at the following locations (no appointment is needed):
North - Wednesday November 4, 2020 at Titusville Library, 2121 South Hopkins Ave., Titusville, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Central – Thursday November 5, 2020 at Central Reference Library, 308 Forrest Ave., Cocoa, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
South – Friday November 6, 2020 at the Melbourne Library, 540 East Fee Ave., Melbourne, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
To receive a PPE kit, a license, business card or document that displays the business name and address must be presented. Businesses are eligible to receive up to two kits.
PPE kits provided by the County contain 200 procedure masks, 25 reusable cloth masks, 2 boxes of gloves and 2 bottles of hand sanitizer. When filling out an application, businesses will be able to choose a preferred location to pick up free PPE once distribution begins on Wednesday, Nov. 4. Small businesses, retailers and restaurants that have collected free PPE from the County during previous distributions are still eligible for PPE, but must apply.
The PPE kit distribution was approved by the Board of County Commissioners to support small businesses, retailers and restaurants with supplies to sustain operations during the ongoing COVID-19 public health emergency.
Original Press Release from Brevard County:
Small businesses in Brevard County that employ 25 or fewer workers can apply beginning Monday, July 20, for County-provided Personal Protection Equipment (PPE) kits funded through the federal Coronavirus Air, Relief and Economic Security (CARES Act).
The PPE kit distribution was approved by the Board of County Commissioners to support small businesses with supplies to reopen and sustain operations during the ongoing COVID-19 public health emergency.
PPE kits provided by the County will contain 200 procedure masks, 25 reusable cloth masks, 2 boxes of gloves and 2 bottles of hand sanitizer. Applications are available online beginning Monday at www.brevardfl.gov/BrevardCARES. Distribution of the PPE kits will be held from Monday, Aug. 3, through Friday, Aug. 7, at various locations in the county.
Small businesses eligible for the PPE kits must meet the following criteria:
- Must have 25 or fewer employees
- Must be located in Brevard County
Must operate within the following industry segments:
- Health Care
- Children services and youth camps
- Museums and historical sites
- Amusement and recreation centers
- Independent restaurants
- Barber Shops, beauty salons, nail salons, and personal care services
Once approved, businesses may choose from the following locations and times to pick up their PPE kit:
- Monday, Aug. 3: Titusville Library, 2121 South Hopkins Ave., Titusville, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
- Tuesday, Aug. 4: Central Brevard Library and Reference Center, 308 Forrest Ave., Cocoa, 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.
- Wednesday, Aug. 5: Cocoa Beach Library, 550 North Brevard Ave., Cocoa Beach, 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.
- Thursday, Aug. 6: Melbourne Library. 540 East Fee Ave., Melbourne, 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.
- Friday, Aug. 7: Brevard County’s warehouse, 7740 Technology Drive, West Melbourne, 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.
For more information, call (321) 350-9275.
Brevard Workforce Recovery Assistance Program
CareerSource Brevard in partnership with The Brevard County Board of County Commissioners has announced a NEW Workforce Recovery Assistance Program available to Brevard’s small (fewer than 50 employees) businesses, impacted by COVID-19. Bring valued employees back to work -- we’ve got their pay covered for up to 16 weeks! Funds are limited for this assistance program and will be awarded on a first-come, first-served basis.
Apply today for the Workforce Recovery Assistance Program! Application deadline: July 31, 2020.
#CocoaReadytoLaunch
The City of Cocoa is working with local business owners to gather ideas and information on how they plan to safely re-open their businesses. Cocoa City Council approved a resolution to allow for the expansion of outdoor dining options and signage options to aid the economic recovery efforts of Cocoa Businesses and market the safe re-opening efforts of our local small businesses. In accordance with Florida Governor Ron DeSantis’ Florida Economic Recovery Plan, the City of Cocoa will work with local business owners to promote the safe re-opening of Cocoa businesses. As the State and City prepare to reopen and with guidance from the CDC and the Governor, this page will be updated with resources and tools to help our local business owners. For more information visit, www.ChooseCocoa.org.
Small Business Administration: Paycheck Protection Program
The SBA will resume accepting Paycheck Protection Program applications from participating lenders on Monday, April 27, 2020 at 10:30am EDT.
More information from the U.S. Small Business Administration regarding the Paycheck Protection Program.
Florida nonprofits can apply through the Florida Community Loan Fund.
Historic Cocoa Village Business Links
Small Business Grant Information
Information on Governor DeSantis’ Essential Services and Activities During COVID-19 Emergency Executive Order (20-91) :
- Executive Order (20-91) regarding essential services and activities during COVID-19 emergency
- Essential Services information & FAQs from Florida Chamber of Commerce
- A list of essential services can be found on the Florida Division of Emergency Management COVID-19 page
- Guidance on the essential critical Infrastructure workforce from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security
Information from the State of Florida:
Governor Ron DeSantis has activated the Florida Small Business Emergency Bridge Loan Program to support small businesses impacted by COVID-19. The bridge loan program, managed by the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity (DEO), will provide short-term, interest-free loans to small businesses that experienced economic injury from COVID-19. The application period opens tomorrow, March 17, 2020 and runs through May 8, 2020. For more information, visit the Governor Ron DeSantis COVID-19 Bridge Loan Program website.
The CDC also has resources for businesses and employers.
Information from the Cocoa Beach Regional Chamber of Commerce:
FL Small Business Emergency Bridge Loan, Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) & Paycheck Protection Loan
Florida Bridge Loan - $50K to $100K, one year balloon payback, no interest. Short term, interest free working capital loans, not a grant. Need the following: 2 years completed personal tax returns, 2 years business tax returns, evidence of economic injury (usually that means a YTD Profit and Loss showing the revenue loss), evidence of 2 to 100 employees. Either apply online or mail to the central location. (Florida Department of Economic Opportunity, 107 E. Madison Street, MSC-160, Tallahassee, FL 32399-4120)
SBA Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) - Up to $2M, up to 30 years, can be used to pay back the Florida Emergency Bridge Loan. Apply directly at the SBA. There is also a grant aspect of this where if you apply the SBA will provide some money up front.
NOTE: all of the details relating to the immediate grant funds may not be available since the CARES act just passed.
SBA Paycheck Protection Loan – this is an SBA 7A loan where businesses would apply at a bank. Not all the lenders are noted yet, but we suggest you start at the bank that you are doing business with. Details are still be finalized.
Inside the CARES Act: Emergency EIDL Grants
Many businesses are calling and eager to learn more about the granting portion of the CARES Act. Here is what we know so far, but keep in mind the implementation of this is still being worked out.
On March 27, 2020, President Trump signed into law the CARES Act, which provided additional assistance for small business owners and non-profits, including the opportunity to get up to a $10,000 Advance on an Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL). This Advance may be available even if your EIDL application was declined or is still pending, and will be forgiven.
Those entities include small businesses, sole proprietors, private non-profits, independent contractors, cooperatives, ESOPs, and tribal units, all with under 500 employees that apply for loans in response to the COVID-19. Upon verification, the government, through lending institutions that work with the SBA, will provide grants up to $10,000. The applying entity has to have been in business for at least a year, which may be waived, but certainly before January 31, 2020.
If you wish to apply for the Advance on your EIDL, please use the link below and fill out the form as soon as possible. In order to qualify for the Advance, you need to submit this new application even if you previously submitted an EIDL application. Applying for the Advance will not impact the status or slow your existing application.
Coronavirus Emergency Loans Guide and Checklist for Small Businesses and Nonprofits
COVID-19 Business Resources
Below are some resources that may assist or inform you, your family and employees during this uncertain time. For more resources visit: CocoaBeachChamber.com/covid-19/
Re-employment Assistance
Price-Gouging Hotline
Coronavirus Tax Relief
In accordance with the Center for Disease Control in order to keep the community and our employees safe, City Council has approved that all events and non-essential public meetings scheduled at City owned facilities from March 17, 2020 through June 30, 2020 be cancelled or rescheduled to a future date to help prevent the spread of the COVID-19 virus. If an event chooses to cancel, we will be offering full refunds on any fees paid to the City for that event. The following special events/meetings were scheduled for this time period:
- March 19 - YMCA Prayer Breakfast-Postponed
- March 21 - Spring Break Family Picnic-Cancelled, possibly postponed
- March 27 - Friday Fest-Cancelled
- March 28 - Duck Race & Car Show-Duck Race will be held virtually, Car Show cancelled
- March 28 - Cocoa Fire Department 100th Anniversary Open House-postponed
- April 3 - VIP Run-postponed
- April 4 - Trash Bash-postponed
- April 4 - St. Mark’s Fundraiser-postponed
- April 7 - City of Cocoa Citizens Academy, Community Services Presentation-postponed
- April 8 - City of Cocoa Citizens Academy, Graduation at City Council-postponed
- April 18 - Keep Brevard Beautiful Plant Sale-postponed
- April 24 - Friday Fest-cancelled
- April 25 - American Cancer Society Relay for Life-postponed
- April 26 - Space Coast Tri-Cocoa Tri-postponed
- May 2 - Preclampsia Promise Walk-postponed
- July 4 - Independence Day Celebration
For private rentals please contact our Leisure Services Division at (321) 639-3500 to reschedule your event or to seek a refund.
- World Health Organization Coronavirus website
- Center for Disease Control (COVID-19) Website
- CDC Preparing Communities
- Florida Department of Health COVID-19 website
- Coronavirus Fact Sheet-English & Coronavirus Fact Sheet-Spanish
- Cover Your Cough Poster
- Stop the Spread of Germs Poster
- Hand Washing vs. Hand Sanitizer Fact Sheet
- What To Do If You’re Sick
- Space Coast Area Transit