Huntley board to consider outdoor dining areas
Huntley village officials this week will consider allowing sidewalk seating for outdoor dining patios or cafes in the downtown area.
Some restaurant owners sought the change to capitalize on the newly revitalized downtown.
Officials have completed $4.75 million in upgrades downtown, including new landscaping, benches, bike racks, widened sidewalks and reconstructed streets.
In downtown, Morkes Chocolate Shop and Parkside Pub have a large outdoor patio and beer garden/dining area, respectively, on private property. However, a majority of downtown buildings sit at the lot line and would have to place any outdoor seating on the sidewalk, which is a public right of way.
Officials researched how neighboring communities permit this type of use. In most cases, towns require an annual permit for a sidewalk cafe, a hold harmless agreement releasing the municipality for liability, insuring the, license or lease agreement for use of the property, and a clear and continuous pedestrian path of at least four feet. Some towns also may require a barrier around the area, documents show.
Huntley would have to amend its liquor code to allow consumption of alcoholic beverages outside, which now is permitted with special approval on a case-by-case basis for specific activities and duration as part of the liquor license application or renewal.
The village board's committee of the whole will review a proposed ordinance Thursday that would amend the code to allow for limited outdoor seating areas.
"Right now, we don't have any active applicants for it, but we have heard from a couple (of restaurants) that there was potentially some interest in doing that," Assistant Village Manager Lisa Armour said.
Village board members have said they are not looking to impose a lot of restrictions. If allowed, the following rules would apply:
• Applicants must include a site plan for the seating area, the type and size of furniture to be used, and ensure a clear continuous pedestrian path of at least four feet wide will be maintained.
• They must enter into a license agreement with the village for use of the public right of way, insure the village against liability and provide proof of $1 million insurance.
• They will be responsible for maintaining the area free and clear of litter and debris.
• Outdoor furniture can be placed only starting April 1 and must be removed by Oct. 31 so it doesn't interfere with snow removal.
• Approval will be subject to annual review as part of the liquor license renewal process. An additional $50 annual fee will be charged at the time of liquor license application or renewal.