Vote NO on Question 5, or say goodbye to your favorite restaurants  

As someone who has worked in the restaurant industry for 19 years, I feel uncertain and uneasy about the future of small businesses and restaurants in the state of Massachusetts if Question 5 passes. In theory, it sounds like a wonderful thing: More money in the pockets of servers and bartenders. Unfortunately that is not the case.

As many restaurant patrons may not be aware, there is already a tip credit in Massachusetts that ensures an employee receives a minimum of $16 an hour if their tips don’t add up to it. If we have to bump pay to $16 an hour, the cost of dining out in our beloved city of Newburyport will be outrageous, as restaurants will be forced to raise prices to offset the extra expense. We’re talking $25 drinks and $30 burgers. If things do get to that point, people will likely stop dining out as often, meaning tips will dwindle and servers and bartenders will make significantly less. This would have a broader impact on the local economy, too; as restaurants become less affordable and attractive, fewer people will come downtown altogether, impacting shops and other businesses in the community.  If the city isn’t making as much money from the business’ taxes, they will have to raise an already high property tax. As you can see, the ripple effect of this ballot question could be truly devastating.

With question 5 also comes a stipulation that a manager can now split tips with everyone as they see fit with no guidelines. This will create animosity inside the restaurants and ultimately skilled workers will leave the industry or go work in other states. Service standard and quality will plummet, date nights will become fewer and farther between, and an after work drink on a Friday will cost more than double. I came into this industry and grew to love it because I know I can make someone’s bad day just a little brighter; I can help someone take a celebration or birthday and make it just a little more special. If this passes, special occasions and dining just won’t be the same.

My dad always says, “If it ain’t broke don’t fix it.” I would usually roll my eyes at him, but this time it’s true.

Vote NO on Question 5.

Nicholas Miller-Garringer
General Manager, Paddle Inn

Passionate about a local issue? We want to hear from you. Check out our submission guidelines.