As the public health emergency triggered by the coronavirus pandemic almost immediately expanded to an economic emergency in Long Beach, the city began working to create an economic relief package for working families and businesses.

The issues and topics ranged from workplace safety to food worker protections and emergency loan programs.

“This is really an historic time for the city and the city council in particular,” said the city’s economic development director John Keisler during a live chat Tuesday with Long Beach Post Publisher David Sommers.

Tonight, the city council will discuss ways to bolster the local economy, including requiring sick pay and ordering businesses to rehire laid-off workers when the economy improves.

“There’s a list of legal opinions and best practices [in the city memo] and the council will consider what is it that will have the best impact in a positive way for both workers and businesses here in Long Beach,” Keisler said.

No recommendation is expected to come out of the discussion, yet.

The council will meet virtually at 5 p.m. To tune in click here.

The city’s economic development department also has a business and worker resources page and business hotline and call center at 562-570-4BIZ.

Check out the live chat in its entirety below: