Member Update
May 1, 2020
What's Inside:
Disappointed, Not Surprised
Call to Allow Camping
Food Trucks Allowed at Truck Stops
Senate Passes Tax Bill
Scam Alert
Take Time, Take Care
AHLA Survey Results
In the News
Health Care Heroes
On a Lighter Note
Disappointed, Not Surprised
Yesterday’s announcement came as no real surprise, and it’s still a big disappointment. With the two-week extension, we’ll redouble our efforts to push for relief that will fill the current gaps in federal and state programs and will continue to provide input as guidelines for our industry are formalized by the state.
Call to Allow Camping
We agree with the 36 legislators who sent a letter to Governor Walz, encouraging that RV parks and campgrounds be opened to recreational campers. It is our view that recreational campers can stay overnight, or longer, at a campground while  still maintaining distancing and not interacting with others,   and that the “stated goals” of yesterday’s Executive Order 20-48  appear to be inconsistent with the  DNR guidance  closing recreational camping. We will continue to make this case to state leaders.
Food Trucks Allowed at Truck Stops
Governor Walz issues Executive Order 20-49 , allowing food trucks to operate at six highway rest areas to be designated by MnDOT in order to serve overland truckers through the current closure orders. Primary requirements to participate include holding a valid license to operate a food truck and adherence to CDC and MDH guidance on operating safely.
Senate Passes Tax Bill
Senate File 3843 passed Thursday on a vote of 40-27. Key relevant provisions are the 60-day delay in the state portion of property taxes (i.e. the ley on commercial and seasonal properties) and the suspension of the June accelerated tax payment; two provisions on our advocacy agenda. “Senate Majority Leader Paul Gazelka, R-East Gull Lake, said the bill could provide immediate help to businesses . ‘Even buying them another 60 days of not having to pay some of those taxes could be the difference of them making it or not making it,’” The bill now moves on to the House for consideration.
Scam Alert
A member business has reported a serious scam. What started out as an inquiry to fill a large order to feed medical staff turned into an attempt to enlist the business’ help in posting erroneous charges to an account.  The SBA has set up  a web site  to help identify and report the uptick in scams related to the coronavirus.
Take Time, Take Care
Minnesotans are entering the eighth week since the first case was diagnosed in Minnesota. People are anxious, stressed, angry and afraid. One member described hearing yesterday’s news as “yet another kick in the gut.” When you’re knocked down, it can be hard to get up, even when you tell yourself you’ve always been able to before. If you, or someone you care about, is in need of extra support during this time to tend to their mental health,  resources are available .
AHLA Survey Results
The American Hotel & Lodging Association  shared it’s survey results  on a variety of issues today. Among the findings:

  1. More than 95% of respondents applied for a PPP and/or EIDL loan. 
  2. 79% of applicants were approved for one or both - the median loan amount applied for was $150,000.
  3. More than 50% of members report that the loan amount they were approved for is not sufficient to rehire all staff.
  4. Less than 15% of commercial mortgage-backed security debt (CMBS) borrowers have received forbearance or other forms of debt relief from their servicers.
  5. Nearly 90% of bank debt borrowers have received forbearance or other forms of debt relief.

Further proof of the focused relief needed to fill the gaps in federal and state programs for hospitality businesses.
In the News
Health Care Heroes
Today’s Star Tribune features “ Heroes of the Pandemic ,” a look at Minnesotans working on the frontline of the disease. The piece is paired with hundreds of  thank you notes  written by Minnesotans to the health care provider community.
On a Lighter Note
Thousands of people used the coronavirus as their inspiration for the  Star Tribune’s Limerick Contest . One grand prize winner, receiving a roll of toilet papers as their trophy, and 19 runners up were selected from 4,000 entries.
Our Member Updates are generally sent to members only. In the interest of public health and the health of our industry, we encourage you to share this update widely. Additional resources can be found on our  website  and through our social media posts on   Facebook , LinkedIn  and  Twitter .