On September 21, I introduced Resolution 38-20 asking the County Executive to end the restrictions on restaurants and bars closing at 10pm.
Due to the urgent situation of most of our locally owned restaurants and bars I asked that the council vote on the resolution in the same meeting. Our restaurants and bars are weeks away from no longer being able to provide outside seating due to temperatures. They've been operating at 50% capacity for months. With the 10pm closure, they are losing thousands of additional dollars every week and struggling to stay open. Some have already closed their doors permanently. Most recently Paladar in Annapolis.
No other county in the state of Maryland has this 10pm closure imposed. They are more than just a business. Behind each one is an owner who is a member of our community. They are part of what makes each district unique and support local schools, churches and other organizations. They employ members of our community and support their own family. After a very lengthy discussion and an amendment to strengthen the language, Resolution 38-20 passed with a bipartisan vote of 5-2. The decision is still with the County Executive. Unfortunately, at yesterday's meeting, the administration did not support the resolution and stated that they will not be removing the 10pm closure at this time.
The will of the council was made last night and I will work tirelessly for the businesses and people in our community. I thank my colleagues for their support. Our restaurants and bars are Back to Business. Now, let's keep them in business.
To read the full resolution, please see "related document" below