Richmond suspends karaoke bar license over COVID-19 violations

RICHMOND (NEWS 1130) – A karaoke bar in Richmond has been temporarily shut down by the city a few weeks after police busted the business for not following public health orders.

Clay Adams, a spokesperson for the City of Richmond, says the city has suspended the Deco Nova Lounge and Eatery for at least two weeks over concerns of mass gatherings.

“This was really the final step to say, enough is enough,” he tells NEWS 1130.

Mounties fined more than 34 people, including a manager, for violating health orders over Famly Day weekend.

RELATED: More than $17,000 in COVID-19 fines handed out at karaoke events in Richmond

For the most part, Adams says when people or businesses have defied health measures, the issue was discussed and there weren’t repeat offenders. But Adams says there have been multiple issues with the establishment at Aberdeen Square.

“Previously, we’ve had complaints about them and we’ve been in contact with them to repeat the need to adhere to the health orders. We understand that also some provincial bodies, such as the liquor inspection board, have had some concerns about violations of its licensing procedures as well,” he says.

Adams says the city will be following up over the next few weeks and if there are more issues, the consequences could be even more severe.

“We could continue to suspend that license if we don’t feel like they’re recognizing their responsibilities. If necessary, we will actually take them to court. We can go look at avenues through the provincial court to basically have them cease their operations. While we hope we don’t need to do that, it is an option,” he explains.

This license suspension is effective this week.