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By: Reporter Staff

Elected officials across Niagara County including State Senator Rob Ortt, Mayor Arthur Pappas, County Legislators Jesse Gooch and Rich Andres, North Tonawanda Alderman-at-Large Bob Pecoraro, and others, gathered at the Riviera Theatre to call on Governor Andrew Cuomo to allow for the reopening of live production venues. 

“The theatre has worked with local health officials and has developed a plan to ensure for a safe reopening,” said Senator Ortt. “Unfortunately, they have been ignored by the governor and his administration.”

Senator Ortt believes the governor’s failure to support these business could result in them not coming back at all. 

 

 

“We must allow these venues that have safety protocols in place to reopen for the sake of our local economies. Once community institutions like the Riviera are gone, they are gone forever.”

County Legislator Gooch echoed Ortt’s sentiments. 

“I am glad that Senator Ortt and other local leaders attended and spoke as well about the reopening of the live music and entertainment industry,” said Gooch. “Many venue owners, bar owners, musicians, and employees are left in the dark with no idea when they can tentatively get back to work. That is unacceptable. I will continue to fight for small businesses and the live music and entertainment industry!”

 

 

North Tonawanda Alderman-at-Large Bob Pecoraro also spoke out demanding such venues be open and thanking Senator Ortt for pressing the issue.

“It is time for the entertainment industry be allowed to safely open – thank you for speaking out to keep our venues from closing for good.”

County Legislator Rich Andres further emphasized the importance of the Riviera to North Tonawanda. 

“We need to reopen the Riviera,” said Andres. “They have a sound reopening plan that has been reviewed and approved by the Health Department. The state has to allow this anchor of our downtown to generate income before it goes under and we lose the progress we have made.”

The Niagara Reporter will keep you updated with any developments.