At the Peel and Press pizzeria in West Seattle, the cooking comes easy for owner Dan Austi but getting through this pandemic is not.
Especially when the restaurant is empty because the entire state remains in Phase 1 of Gov. Inslee’s reopening plan — no indoor dining, takeout only.
“It’s desperate times. My other location has been shut for months now. That staff has been getting by on unemployment, but it’s not enough to survive in Seattle.”
Phase 2 would allow 25% indoor dining, and when state Senate Republicans offered legislation to move the entire state to Phase 2, 1,600 people signed up to testify.
“The shutdown has been costing us over $120,000 a month,” said Dannielle Knutson, whose family owns four Olympia restaurants.
Austin and his fellow restaurant owners say they can use technology and social distancing to keep customers and employees safe.
“We can reopen the economy while keeping people safe. I’m not saying we should be at 100%,” Austin said.
“All we’re asking for is a chance to get back to 25% and give us a chance to survive this pandemic,” said Eddie Williams, who operates a bowling alley in Spokane.
Gov. Inslee says he’s heard their pleas.
“The fact that we have had to make decisions that have jeopardized their families, treasures and their personal ambitions is a terrible thing.”
A poll done last week for the Washington Hospitality Association says 76% of adults support opening restaurants at 50% of capacity with strict social distancing.
22% say no indoor dining should be allowed until COVID-19 is under better control.
The governor says he’s staying with the shutdown rules that have given Washington one of the lowest death rates in all the 50 states.
“I’m intent on that. And I believe that respects and is in tune with the values of the state of Washington.”
While the proposal has had a hearing, so far, no further action is scheduled.
Cox Media Group
