'ReOpen Minnesota Coalition' Plans To Defy Gov. Tim Walz

TWIN CITIES, MN — Gov. Tim Walz's "four-week pause" on social activities, in-person dining, sports, and gym usage is set to expire on Dec. 18. If the governor chooses to extend the coronavirus-related shutdowns, which he has hinted at, there is a growing group of businesses planning to defy him.

The "ReOpen Minnesota Coalition" is gathering financial resources and support for Minnesota business owners who feel they have no choice but to reopen next week, even before the current restrictions expire.

"If you own a business currently shut down, join us! The governor has shown little concern for those suffering most from the effects of his poor leadership, so it is up to us to care for them," the group's Facebook page states.

"Don't let your business die without a fight. Do it now in time for Christmas."

ReOpen Minnesota Coalition unveiled a two-phase approach:

• Phase 1: Rural businesses will reopen on Wednesday, Dec. 16
• Phase 2: Businesses in the Twin Cities metro will open on Friday, Dec. 18.

Darius Teichroew, who is organizing the effort, tells Patch that about 150 businesses have promised to reopen next week. About half of those businesses are located inside the Twin Cities metro, Teichroew says.

What Will Christmas Look Like In Minnesota?

Walz is set to make an announcement Monday about the statewide COVID-19 restrictions and whether they'll be extended.

Walz has already indicated that, unless there is a dramatic reduction in cases and hospitalizations for the coronavirus in the next few weeks, Minnesotans can expect the state guidance against gatherings to remain unchanged throughout the holiday season.

"I'm not gonna surprise anybody. I believe the restrictions around Thanksgiving are going to be very similar around Christmas," Walz told reporters at a news conference on Nov. 30.

The governor's office did not immediately respond to Patch's request for comment.

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