Hospitality industry takes hit as state is ordered to stay home
MONTEREY, Calif. (KION) It was eerily quiet inside Monterey's Portola Hotel and Spa, Friday. The entire building was cleared out, give or take a few employees that were able to keep their jobs.
"I had to bring in every employee and let them know," said director of rooms, Troy Reil.
Reil is still working at the Portola, but 190, of a staff that once numbered 359, are now out of a job.
"Hopefully it's a short turnaround and we can bring everybody back. There are a lot of emotions involved," said Reil.
Similar emotions are felt across the Monterey Peninsula. This week last year, hotels in Pacific Grove were at 90-92% occupancy. This year, that number has shrunk to just 12%.
"Hotels and restaurants are closing. Some have to let go of their staff. The order expires on the 8th, but I think we'll feel the impacts of this for quite a long time," said Peter Mounteer with the Pacific Grove Chamber of Commerce.
The Portola has only be closed since Wednesday, but general manager, Janine Chicourrat said they have lost around $5.1 million.
"It's a significant hit. You think about the transient occupancy tax, the money that goes back to the general fund for the City of Monterey. That's a lot of money. It's not only impacting our hotel, but it's impact our community," said Chicourrat.
The Portola plans to remain closed until April 30, 2020.
While it might take time, Chicourrat is confident tourism in the area will make its comeback. "We're all in this together. Someday we will come out of it. I'm really looking forward to that day."
