Council reviews sidewalk cafe ordinance redlines and fee models; asks staff to return options

Staff member Ashley presented proposed redline edits to the sidewalk cafe ordinance and a companion fee study. She said the packet includes draft text but that the council did not need to act today; staff recommended returning the ordinance for committee consideration on the 18th and focused discussion on fees during this meeting.

Key proposed ordinance changes described by Ashley included clarifying that a right-of-way use permit does not authorize commercial use as a sidewalk cafe unless a sidewalk-cafe permit is also granted; prohibiting new sidewalk-cafe permits for establishments classified as "bar," "club," or "private event space" under the new zoning code (existing permitted cafes would be grandfathered); and retaining a 6-foot unobstructed pedestrian pathway requirement.

On physical configuration, staff proposed removing confusing language about tree…