Local health official says law enforcement not helping with dine in eateries

COLDWATER, MI (WTVB) – Normally, the holiday season is filled with joy and good wishes but this year’s COVID-19 pandemic has led to a lot of anger and frustration especially when it comes to the subject of the State of Michigan closing some businesses in order to stop the spread of the virus.

Community Health Agency Director of Environmental Health Paul Andriacchi told the Board of Health on Thursday his department is getting no help from local law enforcement and prosecuting attorneys in dealing with restaurants that have gone against state orders. Restaurants and bars can only offer take out or delivery service during the pause that was issued by the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services on November 15. The order was issued after there was a surge of COVID-19 cases and deaths in Michigan. It remains in effect through at least December 20. But some establishments around the state as well as several in this area have resumed dine in service claiming they had to do it in order to survive and stay in business.

Andriacchi did not identify the local restaurants that went against the state order. He said the first violation took place in Hillsdale County just after Thanksgiving.

Andriacchi said they moved their enforcement efforts up to the state level.

Andriacchi said they issued ‘cease and desist’ orders to establishments in Branch and Hillsdale County since the pause was extended this week. He added it’s been really uncomfortable for his department as well as a difficult situation.

While his department understands some restaurant people are losing money and some won’t be able to recover, Andriacchi said his department has a job to do. The letter recently sent to restaurant owners and posted on the health department’s website explained there are state grants available for eligible businesses.