Downsized DNC has Milwaukee area businesses worried

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- Milwaukee businesses were expecting to get a big boost from the DNC, but the new scaled-back plan has many wondering how they'll be able to recover from the pandemic.

"Economically, this is another blow to our industry and even tourism and the hotels," said Kristine Hillmer, president and CEO of the Wisconsin Restaurant Association.

 Mayor Tom Barrett says it's still unclear how many people will be coming to Milwaukee for the convention, but the number will be significantly smaller than initially planned.

While city leaders are still hopeful the convention is a chance to showcase for future events, business owners are concerned about when things will get back to normal.

"This was a much-needed shot in the arm," Hillmer said. "Knowing that it's going to be scaled back -- and we don't even know what that means yet -- who is actually going to be here..."

The Restaurant Association, like other groups and businesses, say they hope the city follows up for a bid to host the RNC or DNC in 2024.