Michigan Restaurant and Lodging Association comments on today’s announcement that loosens the restrictions placed on bars and restaurants.
“We welcome the governor’s decision today to expand restaurant, banquet and meeting space occupancy and consider this change critically important, but the six-week duration of this Order is concerning and significantly too long to adapt to rapidly changing metrics around this virus.”
“We are hopeful that this DHHS Order represents a paradigm shift in the administration’s overall approach to the hospitality industry, accepting that the dramatically reduced hospitalization rate and increased vaccine distribution mean our most vulnerable populations are protected and that reopening should advance in a timely manner. While we are disappointed about the length of the Order given the fragile state of the hospitality industry and improving outcomes, we are committed to working toward collaborative and consistent – emphasis on consistent – progress towards the full reintegration of the industry as Michigan moves more fully into a new phase of this pandemic.”
After weeks of advocacy, the Northern Michigan Chamber Alliance said it’s encouraged to see COVID restrictions on businesses loosening. The Alliance represents 16 chambers and economic development organizations and over 7,000 member businesses from all across northern Michigan.
The organization commended Governor Gretchen Whitmer for listening to businesses, including those in the hospitality industry. “Alliance member organizations are certainly feeling encouraged by today’s announcement,” said Stacie Bytwork, the chairperson of the Alliance and president and CEO of the Manistee Area Chamber of Commerce. “The easing of restrictions, including increasing capacity for restaurants and bars, is a start down the path of economic recovery for our regional business community.”
The Alliance called for a sustained reopening process in order to promote the survival of regional businesses. The organization said all businesses should have the ability to reasonably operate with proper safety protocols in place, including wedding and banquet venues. The organization said it stands ready to support reopening discussions and will continue working with its member organizations and their member businesses on implementing the new order.
“The Alliance is committed to remaining a good partner to the State and their efforts by supporting our businesses in following the new order,” said Sarah Hagen, vice-chairperson of the Alliance and president of the Charlevoix Area Chamber of Commerce.
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