GOODLETTSVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — As businesses look to rebound during the COVID-19 pandemic, some business owners are taking issue with Mayor John Cooper’s plan to reopen Davidson County, saying the restrictions aren’t treating catering businesses equally.
Jim Hagy helps run Chef's Market in Goodlettsville. While his business has transitioned to fulfilling takeout orders, a big part of his business -- catering -- has ground to a halt.
His catering event calendar is empty, and his shelves are stocked with unused equipment.
Hagy wants to know why there isn’t more leeway for weddings under Mayor Cooper’s Reopening Nashville plan.
"We feel like there needs to be clear answers here," Hagy said.
Right now in phase one, restaurants can have up to half their maximum capacity -- potentially more than a hundred people if the space is big enough. But gatherings like weddings that Chef’s Market could cater are limited to just 10 people. Hagy says venue spaces should be allowed to continue with the same percentage of occupancy that restaurants can.
"A flat number of 10 when dealing with venues like Cheekwood or Bellemeade plantation that can easily seat 600 people, doesn’t make any sense," Hagy said.
Hagy says with safety measures like hand sanitizer and face masks, events like weddings can be safer than restaurants, malls or big box stores, who don’t use guest lists.
"They’re able to track that contact tracing back and see who was at events," Hagy said. "There’s no invitation list to go into Walmart."
What is the rebound?
As Middle Tennessee works to rebound from the impact of the Coronavirus, we want to help. Whether it's getting back to work, making ends meet during this uncertain time, or managing the pressure, we're committed to finding solution. In addition, we want to tell your stories of hope, inspiration, and creativity as Middle Tennessee starts to rebound.
Find more in the sections below
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Safely Back to School
How schools are changing, and what you can do to help your child get the most from their education, in-person or virtual -
Making Ends Meet
Find help on topics from rent to food to new belt-tightening techniques -
Managing the Pressure
Feeling isolated or frustrated? Learn ways to connect with people virtually, get counseling or manage your stress. -
Doing What’s Right
Keep track of the way people are spending your tax dollars and treating your community. -
State of Education
Find ways to cope with the new normal around schools and celebrate students’ success in the age of Coronavirus. -
We're Open Y'all
Support local businesses doing their best to stay open and serve their customers during Covid.
