3. SR 05-27-2020 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Request for Action To Item Number Mayor and City Council 3 Agenda Section Meeting Date Prepared by Special Meeting May 28, 2020 Zack Carlton, Planning Manager Tina Allard, City Clerk Item Description Reviewed by Discuss Governor's Order Related to Outdoor Cal Portner, City Administrator Dining for Restaurants Reviewed by Peter Beck, City Attorney Action Requested Council direction on use of public spaces, such as parking lots, streets, parks, parking spaces, and sidewalks for extended dining patios. Adopt, by motion, a resolution to facilitate the temporary expansion of outdoor dining service areas for restaurants. Background/Discussion On Wednesday, May 20, 2020, Governor Walz announced Phase II of his Stay Safe MN Plan, which allows outdoor dining for restaurants beginning June 1. Cities can assist businesses requesting to have additional outdoor seating and can include areas such as sidewalks, parking spaces, or other undeveloped outdoor areas adjacent to restaurants. Staff can assist most restaurants in the city with extended patio requests when it is on their own or leased property but would need direction for restaurants located downtown. The attached resolution would give staff authority to approve these patio extensions with ratification by Council at a later meeting. This would allow for businesses to open quickly to start capturing revenue. In considering patio extensions, reviews will evaluate traffic circulation and pedestrian safety, and increased noise for restaurants adjacent to residential areas. Many restaurants already have patios and expansion of the outdoor seating area will minimally impact adjacent properties. The Governor's order allows outdoor seating for up to 50 patrons, but not all restaurants will move for full capacity. Staff will work with restaurant owners on a configuration that fits their needs but preserves the health safety and general welfare of the community. An updated map of the expanded service area, updated liquor liability insurance, and property owner permission, if on leased property will be required. One requirement of state law is that patios must be compact and contiguous. This means the patio must be physically connected to the main restaurant. For most of the downtown restaurants, back parking lots could be considered. But for McCoy's Pub, the sidewalk and street would be an option. Cities need to follow DEED guidance on reopening measures as attached. Key requirements include the following: ■ Develop and implement a COVID-19 Preparedness Plan. The Elk River Vision A welcoming community with revolutionary and spirzted resourcefulness, exceptional service, and community engagement that encourages and inspires prosperzty