City Council Minutes 2013 11 12 - Laserfiche WebLink

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City Council Meeting Minutes November 12, 2013 Page 6 of 15 Fiscal Impact: If all businesses, which had patios this year continue to participate, the program would generate $9,500 annually. Additional funds need to be budgeted (roughly $12,000 for each 12' section). Because the proposed fees do not cover maintenance the City will need to budget the difference between what is paid by the restaurants and the amount needed to maintain the program. PUBLIC COMMENT Jacque Blanchard, The Rex, 817 Main Street, Louisville, CO, voiced his support of the City's proposal for the patio program. He stated there is value in the seasonal patios for the City, the downtown businesses and restaurants. He felt it is a direct benefit through this partnership between downtown restaurants and the City. Patrick Walsh, Bittersweet Cafe, 1201 Main Street, Louisville, CO, also voiced his support for the patio program. He felt the patios make Louisville standout against other communities. He stated the benefit of the patios goes beyond the restaurants to other downtown businesses. He felt the cost of the patio rental and the modification of the liquor license is too much for small restaurants such as his. COUNCIL COMMENT Council member Jasiak voiced her appreciation for all the stakeholders who have taken the time to voice their opinions. She agreed the benefit of the patios goes far beyond the restaurants, but felt there should be some costs associated with the patios to recoup the cost of maintenance. Mayor Muckle inquired about the annual liquor license cost for restaurants having a patio. He asked if there is an option for a permanent license premises for the patios. Economic Development Director DeJong explained state law requires a modification of premises license application with a $150.00 fee each time the license is modified. In the case of patios it was be $300.00 per year, which is the state application fee. City Clerk Varra confirmed the City does not receive any portion of the application fee. Mayor Muckle agreed there are benefits to the patio program, but noted the City is paying significantly more than half of the program. He acknowledged the City is receiving sales tax revenue, but felt the recommended rental cost for the patios was reasonable. PUBLIC COMMENT Jim Cohen, Empire Restaurant, 816 Main Street, Louisville, CO asked if the City investigated other resources or grants, or explored any other avenues, which would cover the cost of the patios. Economic Development Director DeJong stated there are no known state grants for this type of program. Mr. Cohen asked if the DBA was asked to financially support the patio program.