During a recent government meeting, a representative from Stem Ciders voiced significant concerns regarding the potential impact of new regulations on local restaurants in Lafayette. The speaker, who has been part of the community for five years, highlighted that without a strategic approach, many restaurants may be forced to adopt QR code ordering systems, leading to staff layoffs. This shift, they noted, mirrors trends seen in Denver, where restaurant sales have plummeted by over 30%, resulting in increased unemployment rates.

The speaker emphasized that restaurant staff in Lafayette already earn between $20 to $45 per hour, arguing that the minimum wage is intended to provide foundational job training rather than serve as a living wage. They warned that the financial strain on businesses could adversely affect the city’s tax revenue, which had already seen fluctuations since the pandemic. In 2020, local restaurants contributed $70,000 in tax revenue, while projections for 2024 indicate a rise to $125,000, underscoring the importance of maintaining a healthy business environment.

The representative urged city officials to carefully consider the implications of any regulatory changes, suggesting that businesses might relocate to neighboring areas with more favorable conditions. They called for a more measured approach to policy-making, stressing that the health of local businesses directly correlates with the city’s economic well-being. The meeting concluded without further public comments, leaving the community's concerns hanging in the air as officials ponder their next steps.