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Temporary Patio Program Turned Down

Niagara on the Lake patio

This was for Queen Street in Niagara on the Lake for the summer

A temporary outdoor patio program for Queen Street has been voted down by Niagara on the Lake council for this summer.

The idea was from Lord Mayor Gary Zalepa, to be used until the Queen Street Secondary Plan was done.

Councillor Wendy Cheropita has taken many calls in support, despite some businesses being against.  "I'm sorry that there are businesses that feel it's not fair and equitable.  We let go and turned down the program that would've been fair and equitable.  This is all that's left until the Queen Street Secondary Plan is completed, and that could be another 2-years.  I'd rather see a few patios on Queen Street."

Some business owners have said patios give other businesses an unfair advantage.

Councillor Maria Mavridis liked the concept, but added the idea needed more.  "When it's only for 2 restaurants out of the 32 in the downtown... I have spoken to the Lord Mayor a few times, yes, it is scoped way down, and it doesn't help with all the businesses."

Councillor Sandra Connor said this isn't the first time council has voted against a temporary program.

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