CHARLOTTE, N.C. — A popular Charlotte pub that announced in November it was temporarily closing because of COVID-19 and received a citation prior to shutting its doors, has reopened.
Selwyn Avenue Pub in Myers Park said it was closing for safety reasons because of a recent surge in cases at the time. A few days later, the pub released a statement saying it had received a citation for violating the COVID-19 executive order.
On Friday, the pub announced that it had reopened for takeout orders Thursday through Saturday from 5 p.m. till 9 p.m.
“We’ve spent our hibernation working on improving our business, such as implementing our new point of sales system ... which will allow more opportunities for contactless ordering, virtual menus, etc.,” the pub said in a statement.
The owners hope to expand operating hours and be fully open for on-site dining by March.
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Channel 9 learned in November that three people called 311 to complain about the pub being overcrowded.
Selwyn insisted that it was not overcrowded and said it actually operates under a 37% capacity limit to promote social distancing even though the state allows 50%.
“We were not overcrowded and sincerely believed that we were following the letter and intent of the executive order," the pub said in a statement.
According to Selwyn, they got in trouble because patrons were “standing and drinking." Management said they didn’t know that was against the rules and so far they said the COVID-19 ambassador has provided little clarification on the matter.
“To say that we are disappointed in the effectiveness of the COVID Ambassador program is an understatement,” the statement read. “Our understanding is that they would help small businesses navigate a complex set of rules in a challenging environment. Instead, they choose to file a complaint instead of doing a little research to find our answer.”
A worker at Selwyn tested positive earlier in November, according to officials.
“The Health Department, along with other state and local authorities have been very helpful in guiding us through this challenging period of our 30-year history. We are committed to health, safety and satisfaction of our patrons, our team members and our community,” the restaurant wrote in a post on social media.
City Councilman Braxton Winston told Channel 9 in a statement that local businesses shouldn’t have to choose between paying their bills and closing to protect the community. He said a better federal plan is needed.
“I’m concerned for the small business owners too. It’s their livelihoods. I think it’s going to be a really heavy toll on them,” Charlotte resident Vladimer Leontyev said.
There is some relief specifically for restaurants -- the state introduced rent and mortgage funding for them on Thursday.
The Mecklenburg County Deputy Health Director issued the following statement:
"Mecklenburg County Public Health appreciates the cooperation of and decision to voluntarily suspend operations by Selwyn Avenue Pub management. Our team of COVID-19 Ambassadors have effectively provided education, guidance and support to more than 1,500 organizations in our community. COVID-19 Ambassadors do not have any enforcement authority and often engage CMPD when there are potentially concerning circumstances. COVID-19 Ambassadors also do not issue citations nor make recommendations for citations. We look forward to continued partnership with Selwyn Ave Pub and all businesses in our community as we work to slow the spread of COVID-19 and reopen safely.
"The 50% occupancy limits for restaurants outlined in the Governor’s Executive Order 163 are not applicable as Selwyn Avenue Pub has not been properly permitted to operate as a restaurant. As per the Governor’s Executive Order 169, bars are limited to 30% capacity outdoors and seated-service only. The Governor’s Executive Orders are clear and consistently reiterate that bars and similar establishments are restricted to seated service and guests should be appropriately distanced while seated. The Executive Order further authorizes local law enforcement to enforce these restrictions.
"Excerpt from Executive Order 169, Page 3:
“WHEREAS, for these reasons and others, it is prudent to continue to limit Bar operation by requiring that all Guests be seated at tables and counters, separating Guests so that different groups are socially distanced, and by closing all indoor seating areas”
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