Statement on Kavanaugh's closing

Normally, I would stay out of making any comment on something like this as business is tough these days and unfortunately 75% of small businesses close within the first five years, I think the stat is.  

I'm commenting because I have been getting a lot of texts, calls and emails about this closing and the issue of City support was raised.  Plus, my heart goes out to all involved.    Here are my comments ... 

"I hope it reopens.  I was just their Monday.  I hope it reopens with love and community."

We need it, especially in these difficult times. Kavanaugh’s has been a staple in the community for nearly three quarters of a century, as a restaurant and meeting space, it represents community. We value that.

I don't know the whole situation but as a former small business owner myself, I recognize and appreciate the difficulty of being a small business owner; taking a financial, mental and emotional risk to pursue a dream.

I hope that the situation will come to a resolution very quickly and the parties involved will work to work out their differences with a shared goal of reconciliation.

I know it will be meaningful to the community and it will bring resolve the employees, many of whom have worked there for years.

Kavanaugh’s represents family to them and to us"

I'm sure I didn't say it as eloquently, but you get the gist of what I said. 

Finally, I recognize that we just authorized a non-competitive alcohol beverage services contract between them and Warner Park Community Recreation Center (Legistar #87840) and they recently applied for a conditional use permit.  The contract is not signed yet and city officials say that would likely lead the City to pursue other options to provide this service if  they don't reopen.

ABW,

Alder Amani, Alder for Kavanaugh's, District 12

Alder Amani Latimer Burris

(608) 345-8747 (cell -- text preferred)

District12@cityofmadison.com

Alder Amani Latimer Burris