Monroe Restaurants are responding to the looming Wisconsin Mask Mandate, which goes into effect August 1st, 2020, while there is uncertainty about its enforcement in the air.
Mask Mandate:
On July 30th around 12:45pm Governor Tony Evers announced Executive Order #82, which declared a new public health emergency in response to the increased COVID-19 spread in Wisconsin. In the same press release, Emergency Order #1, announced a state-wide mask mandate that would go into effect on August 1st. The Mask Mandate requires everyone in Wisconsin wear a mask indoors with exceptions related to private residences, eating, drinking, medical reasons, and a few other circumstances.
While the Mask Mandate appeared to be straight forward, the confusion started to show up later in the afternoon, when Green County District Attorney Craig Nolen announced that he would not enforce the Mask Mandate stating that Executive Order #82 was an unlawful extension of Executive Order #72. On July 31, 2020 the Monroe Police Department issued a statement indicating that based on the District Attorney’s findings, they would not investigate violations of the mask mandate; however, could assist business owners in removing people from heir property if they did not comply with the owners request to wear a mask.
Monroe Restaurants Respond:
In response to the looming mask mandate, we have seen a few statements from restaurants in regards to the Mask Mandate.
Mad Charlie’s Cafe
Mad Charlie’s Café made an announcement on their Facebook page stating that they would be closing their dining room and offering curbside pickup through the duration of the mask mandate.
Full-text of Mad Charlie’s Café’s announcement:
Due to the recent mandate by the Govener[sic], starting tomorrow, Saturday, August 1 – September 28 we will be closing our dining room and offering curbside pickup. We will be placing some extra tables outside that you are welcome to use. To place an order call us at 608.426.6306. We will be offering the same delicious food, with lots of sharing on Facebook about our rotating selections.
North Side Pub and Grill
North Side Pub and Grill posted an announcement on their Facebook page stating that starting August 1st they will require customers to wear a mask when entering or moving about in their establishment; however, face coverings may be removed while seated to enjoy their food and drink. Of course, the Facebook post included one of owner Laura Winter’s iconic videos.
Full-text of North Side Pub and Grill’s announcement:
To comply with Gov Evers Mask Mandate starting Saturday August 1st, we will require customers to wear a mask when entering or moving about in our Pub. You may remove your face covering while seated to enjoy food and drink. Of course, we still offer carry out, Curbside Pick Up and Delivery available @ northsidepubandgrill.com. Thank again for your patience and business.
Perks Coffee Cafe
Perks Coffee Cafe posted a change in hours, which appears to be unrelated to the mask mandate, and asked that customers respect the mask mandate while in Perks.
Full-text of Perks Coffee Cafe announcement:
Changes are on the way starting Monday, August 3.
NEW HOURS
8am-2pm
WI MASK MANDATE
We ask that you respect the mask mandate and wear a mask while in Perks. If you are dining in you may take your mask off once you sit down.
Thank you for supporting our small business!
eatMonroe Recommendation:
If you are dining out or picking up carry out from a Monroe Restaurant, plan on wearing a mask while you are inside the restaurant, until you are seated with your food. This way you will be prepared as restaurants continue to adapt to the ever changing landscape of mandates and recommendations.