In light of the Governor’s announcement that restaurants can open to very limited outdoor seating beginning on June 1, Liz Rammer released the following media statement.
“The news today was surprising and disappointing especially given the many conversations we’ve been having with the Governor and the Hospitality Roundtable convened by DEED Commissioner Grove. While it’s good for those restaurants that are able to offer outdoor seating, it will leave many behind around our state who cannot host patrons in an outdoor patio setting. Many of our operators have begun to hire back their staff to use their PPP loan money and ordering products for reopening on June 1, so this is another disastrous setback for them.
As these businesses stare into the face financial collapse, today’s announcement further delays the incoming revenue these small businesses need to survive. If these businesses are being asked to remain closed or mostly closed, then they need the State’s help with a targeted relief package that provides the support our businesses need to navigate this financial catastrophe.
It's also disappointing to hear that there has been no accommodation made for opening recreational RV camping at private campgrounds in time for Memorial Weekend – one of the biggest revenue opportunities of our campgrounds short 100-day season. RV campers offer natural social distancing, providing families with a self-contained unit for their weekend experience in the great MN outdoors. We have been advocating for a phased approach to permit these cabins on wheels the green light for the important holiday weekend.”
Campgrounds will be able to open on June 1, as can salons and barber shops, with limitations.
