Orangeville staff and BIA will have to be quick on their feet to answer to the province’s sudden decision to enter into phase two of the economic reopening process.
On Monday afternoon, the province announced select regions are permitted to enter into phase two on Friday, Dufferin County among them, which means restaurants will be permitted to offer dine-in services restricted to outdoor spaces.
That evening, Orangeville council added a motion to its agenda allowing restaurants an expanded framework for patios and possibly shutting down Broadway to vehicle traffic if needed.
CAO Ed Brennan told council town staff and the BIA will meet Tuesday (Jun. 9) to determine the best course of action and also offered his suggestions.
Meanwhile, deputy mayor Andy Macintosh expressed concerns over pedestrian safety over the option of patios spilling out into sidewalk territory and for that reason, advocated for shutting down Broadway to vehicles.
However councillor and BIA board member, Debbie Sherwood urged council to accomodate all downtown merchants.
photo credit: nobul.com
