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Council extends street‑seats pilot for two years; staff to keep criteria and design standards
Summary
The council approved Resolution 2026-4035 to extend the street-seats pilot program two years with existing metrics and controls; staff said there is no operating cost until an applicant requests use of the right of way and recommended linking parking studies with a transportation plan update.
The Newberg City Council voted to extend the street-seats pilot program for two years by approving Resolution 2026-4035. Community Development Director Scott Siegel told councilors the program grants restaurants permission to use limited right-of-way for outdoor seating; the city has had only one application since the program began in 2015, but staff view it as a tool for downtown economic development.
Councilors debated the merits of leaving the policy in place versus letting it lapse. Siegel and other staff noted the downtown parking study (2023) found overall downtown parking below 85% capacity, though some spots near the cultural center and special-event lots can reach capacity. The city attorney cautioned that some criteria contain subjective elements, replying to a question with "yes and no. That's clear as mud." The motion to extend the program passed by voice vote.
