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River Street restaurant seeks seasonal outdoor dining; board asks staff to draft standard policy
Summary
River Street business representatives asked to use three public parking spaces for seasonal outdoor dining; trustees favored the idea but asked staff for a standard seasonal policy, ADA safeguards, and fee options such as a seasonal lease.
A River Street restaurant owner asked the Village Board on May 4 for permission to reuse three parking spaces previously designated as handicap spaces for the 2026 outdoor dining season, saying last year's pilot "was successful for us last summer."
Board members said they supported outdoor dining but stressed the need for consistent rules so other downtown businesses have equal opportunity. Trustees raised safety and accessibility concerns, suggesting concrete barriers, ADA ramps, and modular raised decks. One trustee suggested a seasonal lease fee to formalize use of public space; staff discussed a possible $1,000 seasonal fee as a starting point and proposed returning with a standardized policy for fairness and enforcement.
Trustees asked staff to study options that would preserve public safety and accessibility while allowing seasonal patios where adjacent parking or garage capacity mitigates impact on downtown parking. No formal license or ordinance was approved that night; the board gave staff direction to prepare policy options and details for future consideration.
If adopted, staff said the policy could include limits such as proximity to parking garages, hours of allowed operation, ADA ramp requirements, and lease terms for seasonal use.
