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Select Board tables Depot Pizzeria parking-for-seating request, asks manager to craft policy
Summary
Depot Pizzeria asked to close two public parking spaces for outdoor seating. The Select Board discussed safety, ADA access, parking 'creep' and insurance and voted to table the request while directing the town manager to draft a formal outdoor-seating policy and application process.
Depot Pizzeria requested permission to occupy two public parking spaces on Main/Depot Square for outdoor seating. The Select Board discussed the application at length Tuesday, focusing on pedestrian safety, parking impacts, ADA access, insurance requirements and whether sidewalk seating or parklets are preferable alternatives.
Several board members raised the concern of 'creep'—granting one location could invite many similar requests and create parking shortages and safety risks. The manager and members referenced examples and sample ordinances from Montpelier, Burlington and Hardwick as potential models for local rules, including application materials, required drawings, safety delineators and fee structures.
Rather than approve the request immediately, the board voted to table Depot Pizzeria's specific request and directed the town manager to develop a written policy and application form that would: define permissible locations (sidewalks, parklets, or parking spaces); set ADA and safety standards including clear pedestrian access; define insurance and fee requirements; and outline whether alcohol service is allowed and under what containment conditions.
The board asked the manager to return with a recommendation promptly so businesses have guidance for the upcoming season. No formal permit was issued at the meeting.
