*Since this story was published, Simon Property told our colleagues at the IBJ they would not open their properties if a “stay-at-home” order was in place.
Simon’s Mall properties may not be able to open in Indianapolis this weekend as they originally planned due the city extending its “stay at home” order and the state appearing to back that decision.
Marion County is extending its stay at home order to May 15 and under that order, the city’s malls would not be able to open.
CNBC reported this week that Simon Properties was getting ready to open stores across the country this weekend. However Thursday’s virtual news conference Indianapolis Mayor Joe Hogsett and Marion County Public Health Director Dr. Virgina Cain both did not think opening the mall was a good idea, especially since Marion County is a high percentage of the state’s COVID-19 cases as well a third of its fatalities. And Elkhart County public health officials have also expressed concern as well.
When asked this afternoon, Governor Eric Holcomb said he would support the decisions of local governments. He also said when he updates his Executive Order all retailers will be treated equally.
You can hear both Governor Holcomb and Mayor Hogsett’s comments in the Leon-Tailored Audio above. The Governor’s remarks regarding Simon Properties are at 45 minutes into the audio.
