LEXINGTON, Ky. (LEX 18) — A Lexington coffee shop is currently not allowed to serve food or drinks after violating Gov. Beshear's COVID-19 executive order that temporarily bans indoor dining.
"The ruling permits them to operate as a venue but cannot serve food/drinks," said Kevin Hall with the Lexington-Fayette County Health Department.
The order doesn't take effect until the health department pays a $5,000 bond, and it hasn't done so yet.
To be clear, Brewed is not technically violating the restraining order, because it hasn’t taken effect yet. Health department has to post $5K bond to do so, and it hasn’t done so yet. Owner says once it’s paid, he’ll stop serving food & drinks, but he will not close. @LEX18News
— Mike Valente (@ValenteLEX18) December 2, 2020
Brewed was open Wednesday despite Fayette County Judge Thomas Travis granting a temporary restraining order against the coffee shop, saying Brewed needs to stop serving food and beverages to patrons.
Despite the order, Brewed owner Andrew Cooperrider refused to close indoor dining as of Wednesday. According to testimony, Cooperrider said they were operating their dining room like a patio since they had their garage door partially open.
The Fayette County Health Department filed a complaint against Brewed last week. The business also lost its food and liquor license.
Prior to the court's order, Lexington police say they were called to the coffee shop for being notified Brewed was violating the governor's COVID-19 executive order for indoor dining.
"After discussing the situation with the Health Department, a violation of this Executive Order was determined to be a civil matter and not one that law enforcement could take action on," said Sgt. Donnell Gordon. "Claims that Lexington Police 'refused' to shut down the business are inaccurate. We have been in contact with the Health Department regarding steps going forward in light of their court case."
Police confirmed reports that two officers were seen patronizing Brewed Wednesday morning. They say they will address this with any officers involved.
