Sunbury council reviews DORA permit proposal after chamber survey shows strong support

Mrs. Cooper summarized a parks and recreation committee discussion on a proposed Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area (DORA) that the chamber and local restaurants are seeking for the square. Committee members said the proposed DORA would be limited to the square (not beyond), would be closed Monday through Wednesday and proposed open hours of 2 p.m. to 9 p.m. Thursday through Sunday, and would explicitly blackout large events such as the Independence Day celebration and the movies on the square when applicable.

Committee staff noted permit language that builds in a six‑month monitoring/review period and a mandatory minimum five‑year review; councilmembers said police and fire would have authority to revoke a DORA temporarily if safety concerns arise and that the council could revoke the permit if necessary. The chamber reported more than 900 survey responses with roughly 85–90% in favor of the proposal, and staff will forward the permit materials and a summary of economic data to councilors for review prior to any ordinance.

Mrs. Cooper said the next step likely will be an application authorized by council through a city‑manager action that then goes to state liquor control for approval. Council members asked staff to circulate the chamber materials and the draft permit before taking any ordinance vote.