The latest COVID stimulus package contains $15 billion earmarked to try to save the independent music venues around the country that have struggled since the pandemic cancelled so many shows, but for the purveyors of underground music there is some wariness about how effective it might be.
Jim Pirtle, the owner of Notsuoh, is primarily worried about what the government may ask of him to prove he is worthy for a grant. He received a PPE loan as part of last years CARES Act, something that has been very helpful. Pirtle owns the land Notsuoh and Dean’s sits on so he doesn’t have to worry about rent, but he still has a five-figure property tax bill and other expenses to pay. To receive that loan, he just had to provide bank statements, but if the process to apply for one of the new grants requires more he may not be eligible.