Vancouver City Manager Eric Holmes issued two citywide emergency orders Friday designed to mitigate the impacts of COVID-19 on small businesses.

Among other things, the orders make it illegal for landlords to evict small businesses during the crisis, effective through April 30. A small business is defined as any business with fewer than 50 employees holding a valid Vancouver business license.

Holmes’ declaration also reopens the Vancouver Farmers Market so long as vendors and customers take appropriate precautions. Organizers will be required to submit a written operational plan to the city for approval and obtain a special safety permit.

Additionally, Friday’s announcement included:

• suspension of all city business license fees and surcharges;

• protection for city water and sewer customers against being disconnected, a waiver of late payment fees and allowance for payment plans;

• access to city funds for its Help to Other (H20) program, which helps cover bills for low-income water and sewer customers (The program is usually funded through private donations);