Washington Co. leaders, business owners react to state’s new coronavirus restrictions

WASHINGTON COUNTY, Pa. — Local leaders and business owners said their fear is seeing more storefronts close up all over the county.

Washington County Commissioner Larry Maggi is worried about the latest COVID-19 surge.

“Today we had 141 new positives, four more state reported deaths and around 81 in intensive care units, with eight on ventilators,” Maggi said.

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But he’s also worried about small businesses being able to survive the latest mitigation efforts put in place by Gov. Tom Wolf.

On Thursday, the governor announced that all indoor dining at restaurants is not allowed until January.

“It’s very difficult for these small businesses. They’re struggling. The bulk of this pandemic has fallen on the bars and the restaurant owners and fitness centers and all our businesses,” Maggi said.

But his hope is that relief from the federal government will come soon.

“I think it’s so important the federal government passes another care stimulus bill to help these businesses out,” Maggi said.

Pastor Tom Bellhy owns Harmony House Cafe — and with Thursday’s announcement, memories of the shutdown started creeping in.

“When the total closure happened in April and May, we probably lost at least $15,000 ... of income coming in. It was tough for us,” Bellhy said.

These new mitigation efforts will not only be a challenge financially, but also just not possible for the cafe.

“Outdoor eating in PA in the winter time just doesn’t work. So you can roll that out,” Bellhy said. “This place isn’t meant for takeout. This place is meant for people to come in, talk with one another. It’s a social atmosphere here.”

Washington Co. leaders react to new statewide restrictions