State Rep. Paul Anderson, R-Starbuck, said Minnesota’s resorts are open for business, despite uncertainty and misinformation regarding how the governor’s recent COVID-19-related executive orders impact them.
“The resort industry is important to our area and there have been a lot of questions regarding whether their doors would be open with the start of the new season,” said Anderson, who represents part of Douglas County. “We have gained some clarification that resorts never were closed under the governor’s executive orders, which is good news. There are some extra measures in place to keep people healthy and safe, which must remain top priority, but those things can be worked around. The important thing is our resorts can be open for business, if they choose.”
Anderson indicated the following is the most up to date and accurate guidance he has received:
- The hotel portions of resorts (including rented cabins) can open as planned and can accept guests.
- Guests do not have to be members of a critical sector to stay at a resort.
- Communal amenities may not be open for use.
- While resorts can accept visitors, the stay-at-home order continues to discourage unnecessary travel, and the order asks people to remain close to their homes.
- Resorts do not have to open if they are not comfortable doing so.
- Maintenance and cleaning staff can begin work now to prepare for the season.
Anderson said clarification is being sought regarding the status of campgrounds and RV resorts.
