Mayor Kirk Caldwell, we, the residents of the City and County of Honolulu strongly urge you to classify fabric stores as an essential business and service under your emergency stay at home order.

With a shortage of face masks and other personal protective equipment, fabric stores have been providing a valuable service to residents as we endeavor to curve the spread of COVID-19 in Hawaiʻi.

While you have indicated that you are looking to create ways for fabric distributors to continue operating (possibly through a pick up only, or phone only system), many mask makers have identified a need to feel the fabric to inspect the weave before they purchase. Stores like Fabric Mart have already implemented social distancing policies for all customers.

Therefore, we humbly ask that you reconsider your recommendation and allow fabric stores to continue operating as an essential business.

https://www.honolulu.gov/rep/site/may/may_docs/Stay_at_Home_Order-Guidance_Bulletin.pdf