More than Two Dozen Organizations in Michigan Advocate Need for Clearer Guidance
Grand Rapids, Michigan – Earlier this week, a letter signed by a dozen organizations asked Governor Whitmer and MDHHS to take immediate action to allow wedding venues and banquet centers to open safely. Currently, these banquet venues are limited to a 25-person threshold when there are other instances that allow safe indoor gatherings of 100-guests at a time. This letter has now garnered the support of more than two dozen organizations across the state.
The letter to Governor Whitmer shares that, “Without the ability to plan around future potential capacity limits for the coming months they face little prospects for surviving 2021. It is extremely disappointing and frustrating for them to see other indoor venues to be able to benefit from the improving metrics, and not be given an equal opportunity to safely reopen.”
“We urge the administration to immediately provide them with a fair capacity limit that gives them a chance to preserve their businesses and livelihoods,” shared Josh Lunger, senior director of government affairs of the Grand Rapids Chamber.
In addition to the letter earlier this week, the Grand Rapids Chamber hosted a press conference at the Goei Center, which was set up to demonstrate how to host an event safely, to stress that without clarity, the coming months cast a dire outlook for venues to survive the 2021 season.
View Letter and Numerous Supporters
Press Conference
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About the Grand Rapids Area Chamber of Commerce
The Grand Rapids Area Chamber of Commerce leads the business community in creating a dynamic, top-of-mind West Michigan region. Together with over 2,500 member businesses (80% of which are small businesses with fewer than 50 employees), we work to expand the influence, access, and information required to actively encourage entrepreneurial growth and community leadership. We offer the connections, resources, and insights needed to develop strong leaders, engage a diverse workforce, foster an inclusive and welcoming community, and advance a vibrant business environment that nurtures economic prosperity for all. Learn more at www.grandrapids.org.