BEATRICE – Three local economic development agencies have issued a joint statement, urging residents to work together to help avoid negative economic impacts due to the coronavirus.

The Beatrice Area Chamber of Commerce, Gage Area Growth Enterprise and Main Street Beatrice issued a letter Tuesday, which urges business owners, managers and human resources staff to complete a short, confidential survey, with the hope it will lead to ways to assist local business.

The letter asks property owners and renters to keep lines of communication open…for employers to make use of labor department resources if facing difficult staffing decisions….and for people in general to continue to practice social distancing.

The letter also suggests ways citizens can help businesses….things like buying gift cards for later use…..making a phone or online purchase with a local business….ordering takeout food…promoting local business on social media…and tipping generously, when able to do so.