Lisa Christie, Planner, provided an overview of the powerpoint presentation with respect to COVID_19 Recovery Outdoor Patios, highlighting public and private lands processes and zoning permissions and shared photographs of some establishments that have implemented temporary patios.
In response to Councillor Damerla’s inquiry regarding the communication plan, including providing communication in different languages, Lisa Christie, Planner advised that following Council’s endorsement, there will be a press release and links on the City website to take them through all the processes. Gary Kent, Commissioner, Corporate Services and Chief Financial Officer, advised that he would have staff look into the feasibility of translation services, including the cost involved and would provide details to Council by email.
In response to Councillor Dasko’s inquiry regarding waiving fees to occupants that already have existing encroachment agreements, Mr. Kent advised that Council can adopt a resolution to waive the fees for existing agreements.
In response to Councillor Kovac’s inquiry regarding reporting back to Council on the success of this program, Lisa Christie, Planner advised that staff will be monitoring and tracking inquiries and complaints; looking at the success rate of the program; next steps, and collaborate with all departments to compile the data to report back to Council in the new year.
In response to Councillor Fonseca’s inquiry regarding the waiving of fees and charges for properties that front regional roads, and whether there are any fees associated with adding bike parking, Lisa Christie, Planner advised that these properties are municipally zoned and do not require the Region’s involvement, and further advised that staff would work with a business owner on the design guidelines for safely placing bike parking spaces.
In response to Councillor Saito’s request that there be requirements in the guidelines that provide appropriate spacing between accessible parking and the patio fixtures so that there is enough clearance with no obstruction to accessible parking spaces, Lisa Christie, Planner advised that staff will make the changes to the design guidelines.
In response to Councillor Saito’s inquiry regarding whether the new release communication will be distributed to the Ontario Restaurant, Hotel & Motel Association, so they can share it with their Members, Mr. Kent, advised that he would check with Communications staff regarding the distribution list for the news release and will follow up with Council by email.
In response to Councillor McFadden’s inquiry regarding feedback on complaints from neighbouring stores in plazas about the placement of the temporary patios, Lisa Christie advised that she has not heard of any, and that any complaints would be coming through the Enforcement Division.
In response to Mayor Crombie’s inquiry regarding whether the waiving of encroachment fees and obtaining permits apply to awnings and umbrellas, Lisa Christie, Planning advised that a recent Ontario Regulation speaks to allowing awnings and umbrellas. The City has no regulations as long as they are not permanent structures. Mr. Kent noted that the Motion being introduced by Councillor Dasko will cover any ancillary items to the temporary patios.