Comes after pressure from some businesses, Lord Mayor disappointed
Disappointment is one word used by Niagara on the Lake's Lord Mayor now that the temporary patio program has been ended.
Council unanimously voted against extending it beyond December, after pressure from some Queen Street businesses that restaurants were taking advantage of it.
Gary Zalepa wasn't able to be at the meeting. "I would've rather had a full conversation, with all participants, people who are in favour, and people who aren't in favour of it, then had a better conversation and decision made. I think that decision last week was rushed."
He says the whole discussion wasn't on the agenda, only information to be presented to council.
He adds the plan was for a permanent program, noting space in the old downtown. "It has a really small sidewalk area, it's not like some other municipalities that have a lot of space. So, that's one of the challenges we have, and then some of the temporary patios were therefore using public space."
He says he's heard disappointment from some businesses, and expects council to hear from them.
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