Even in Green, Roswell liquor lounge forced to remain closed

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M.- Chaves County is in the Green level of restrictions. However, at least one business is still feeling left out.

Bars and clubs can open at 25% outdoor capacity, but indoor service is still prohibited.

The general manager of Variety Liquor and Lounge in Roswell says they can’t open because they don’t have outdoor space.

"I don’t have a fancy patio out in my parking lot or up on the stairs, I’m just a little dive bar," Matt Johnson said.

The lounge has been closed for more than a year. Johnson said he would be happy if he could reopen with a limited capacity.

"We need some help, we really do– just let me open up 25%, I’ll be as happy as can be, I mean I can at least make it that way, but not being open at all for a whole year I can’t quit make it," he said.

Some restaurants created makeshift outdoor patios, but Johnson said he doesn’t have the space or the budget to make the change.

"There’s not one other place in this town that’s not open but me just ’cause I’m a bar only," he said. "I mean that’s why I’m shut down, all the way, and I don’t understand it."