Outdoor dining made easier
The Arcata City Council unanimously voted Wednesday to allow restaurants to offer outdoor seating for dining amid the coronavirus pandemic.
City code doesn’t allow outdoor arrangements until businesses undergo a planning review process, but the council voted to waive those policies and instead allow restaurants to meet a basic certification process that guarantees health, safety and accessibility.
The changes stemmed from a proposal by Councilmember Brett Watson to form an economic recovery collaborative for people and businesses affected by the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.
One of the Watson’ s goals, accordingto the city council agenda: “Address the health of our citizens balanced with the measured reopening of businesses, schools and large gatherings along with the economic recovery process.”
On Wednesday, the council opted to go further than plan the collaborative, approving outright eased restrictions on how restaurants can structure outdoor seating arrangements.
“I think it would be a good thing for us to do that would be greatly appreciated,” Watson said of the move.
Councilmember Sofia Pereira echoed support for the vote, but emphasized that restaurants will still need to certify that they can uphold safe practices.
“I want to be really clear that there is a process for businesses to go through,” Pereira said “If they’re complying with that, I think we want to be accommodating as much as possible and support safe social distancing and using our businesses that are part of that process.”
The city has been hit hard by the coronavirus pandemic, its government expecting millions in revenue deficits and its businesses reporting, at the start of May, nearly $18 million in economic losses.
Major tourism staples
like the annual Kinetic Grand Championship at the end of May opted instead for remote affairs. The popular Oyster Fest in June appears headed toward a similar, stay-athome format.
Some food spots have reopened in-house dining, including Toni’s 24 Hour Restaurant on Heindon Road.
The restaurant is practicing social-distancing measures by offering halfseating to customers.
Other restaurants have been more hesitant to open up for customers, saying they need more time.