ADMINISRATION - Erik Thorvig, Community Development Director
Title
AMENDING THE TEMPORARY OUTDOOR DINING POLICY
Background
In May, the city council adopted a temporary outdoor dining policy to allow the expansion of outdoor dining in non-traditional areas as a result of state restrictions related to restaurants during the COVID-19 pandemic. Eight restaurants applied including:
• Acapulco
• Applebee’s
• Blainebrook
• Bricks
• Broadway Pizza
• Carol’s
• Ole Piper Inn
• Sticks and Stones
The policy expires on October 31, 2020. There have been no changes to the state restrictions set forth, therefore several restaurants have asked if the temporary outdoor dining policy can be extended into the winter months to allow for additional outdoor seating.
Staff recommends extending the expiration of the temporary outdoor dining policy through April 30, 2021. This will allow restaurants expanded outdoor dining through the winter/spring months. The city can reassess the policy if regulations at the State level change and/or when the policy is nearing expiration next spring.
In all likelihood, tents and heaters will be needed for outdoor dining in the winter. A tent permit is required through the Community Standards Department. They review occupancy, exiting, lighting and heating. Based on the direction from the city council in June, permit fees will be waived.
If approved, staff will reach out to the businesses that have an existing temporary outdoor dining permit and if they desire to either keep or install a tent this winter, require them to submit necessary documentation. Businesses that don’t currently have a temporary outdoor dining permit can also apply. Again, no fee would be charged. If a restaurant desires to use existing patio space not subject to the temporary outdoor dining policy, no permit related to this policy is required, however a tent permit is still needed.
Recommendation
By motion, approve the resolution.
Body
WHEREAS, the City of Blaine adopted a temporary outdoor dining policy on May 26, 2020 to allow for expanded outdoor dining areas in a response to executive orders put in place by the State of Minnesota; and
WHEREAS, the policy is set to expire on October 31, 2020; and
WHEREAS, no changes to the executive orders that limit dining in restaurants has occurred; and
WHEREAS, the city council recognizes the need for businesses to have additional seating.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Blaine City Council hereby extends the temporary outdoor dining policy until April 30, 2020.
PASSED by the City Council of the City of Blaine this 19th day of October, 2020.