Hartland Township puts their "Business Friendly" slogan into action as they relax rules
HARTLAND TOWNSHIP- As restrictions on businesses are lifted in the coming months, Hartland Township seeks to boost the safe reopening of local businesses. The Hartland Board of Trustees is currently drafting a resolution to temporarily relax ordinances pertaining to outdoor dining and sales to help keep safe social distancing practices.
“We want to give businesses all the tools they need to succeed,” explains Township Supervisor Bill Fountain. “Because of social distancing, we know that businesses won’t be allowed to open at full capacity when phased reopenings begin. If working to relax restrictions when it comes to outdoor seating will allow restaurants to serve a larger number of patrons in an open, safe atmosphere, we will make this a reality in our community.”
The Township ensures that the process for businesses to make these changes will be streamlined. The plan will involve a simple permit with no fees and an easy submission process. The goal is to help businesses with limited indoor seating and retail capacity to expand to outdoor space to help establish a successful launch. Hartland Township has stepped up to assist these businesses and has reached out to other governmental agencies to confirm that they are also willing to streamline their processes in these challenging times.
“This temporary modification of ordinances is a shining example of positive change government entities can enact when they come together,” says Fountain. “As I have reached out to the Michigan Liquor Control Commission, the local Fire Authority, and the local Health Department, they have been quick to respond and more than willing to advocate for this cause.”
The Michigan Liquor Control Commission (MLCC) is making it easier for liquor licensees to move business outdoors by simplifying their licensing process for outdoor services. As a “Reopening Workgroup” was formed to share ideas and consider suggestions from restaurants and bar owners on what they needed to help them prepare for reopening, they were able to streamline application processes pertaining to these outdoor services. Links to applications can be found on the new Reopening Resources webpage at: https://www.michigan.gov/lara/0,4601,7-154-89334_10570_16941-529133--,00.html .
With these changes, Hartland is sending a clear message to its community: we support you and your business. We will do whatever is in our power to help you succeed as you find new ways to serve your patrons in the coming months.
“We have never been more thankful for the long-standing partnership we have with the Township,” says Hartland Area Chamber of Commerce Director Katie Chuba. “As our local businesses face difficult times, they have proven to be on our side as a strong ally. The creative leadership in finding solutions to the new challenges that arise in this crisis have demonstrated their support to the business community.”
For businesses that may have more questions about the coming ordinance changes, the Hartland Area Chamber of Commerce will be conducting a Zoom meeting with Township officials at noon tomorrow, 5/21. More information, including the link to sign up, can be found on their website at https://www.hartlandchamber.org/ .
