The City of St. Joseph Planning Commission convened on May 13, 2024, to discuss several key agenda items, with a focus on an outdoor patio permit for La Playa restaurant.

The meeting began with a presentation regarding La Playa's request for a permit to construct an outdoor patio. The restaurant's management had previously operated a patio for approximately three years during the COVID-19 pandemic, which was established to accommodate outdoor dining amid restrictions. However, the current proposal faced challenges due to a permit denial issued by city staff.

City staff explained that while they had worked with La Playa on the permit application, the restaurant would need to appeal the denial to proceed with their plans for the new outdoor space. The commission discussed the implications of this appeal and the potential benefits of the patio for the community, emphasizing the importance of outdoor dining options.

As the meeting progressed, the commission considered the broader context of outdoor dining in St. Joseph, reflecting on past experiences and community feedback. The discussions highlighted the balance between regulatory requirements and the desire to support local businesses.

In conclusion, the Planning Commission's meeting underscored the ongoing efforts to enhance dining experiences in St. Joseph while navigating the necessary legal frameworks. The next steps will involve La Playa submitting an appeal to the permit denial, which will be reviewed in future meetings.