Selectboard weighs sidewalk-dining rule change after questions about Christos' setup

The Town of Manchester Selectboard on July 7 reviewed possible amendments to the town's sidewalk-dining ordinance after concerns that a restaurant configuration, referred to as Christos, may not comply with either town rules or federal accessibility guidance.

Town Manager Scott Murphy said the Planning Commission provided limited feedback but offered language changes and an ADA resource link. "The pitch for a ramp is 1 inch per foot," Murphy said, noting that ramp geometry could require a longer ramp than currently in place. Chair Ivan Beattie emphasized that allowing sidewalk seating "means a restaurant can't narrow sidewalk usage," and said the Selectboard needs to ensure pedestrian access is preserved.

Board members discussed whether to change the ordinance to accommodate existing setups or require businesses to comply with the ordinance as written. Jackie Wilson highlighted the dimensional tension between federal and local guidance: "ADA says 36 inches wide, but TOM ordinance calls for 60 inches wide." Several members said the town should inspect Christos' configuration before deciding whether to amend the ordinance. Jonathan West suggested measuring the site and said this type of sidewalk seating could be one approach to traffic calming in the area.

Murphy said he will measure Christos' setup and draft language that would, among other items, make clear that outside seating cannot occupy parking spaces assigned to other businesses or render an underlying land-use permit out of compliance. The board did not take final action and asked staff to return with measurements and proposed ordinance text at a future meeting.