The City of St. John’s is slashing fees for eateries that want to add a patio or deck for the tourism season.
The idea took off in the wake of the pandemic and advent of the downtown pedestrian mall.
And it’s since expanded to the entire city as the Parklet Program, running from May to October.
But city fees alone can cost several thousand dollars, more if it’s on city land, and more again if it’s lost revenue, like a parking space.
So yesterday, after consulting with restauranteurs, council cut fees for decks on city land by about 85 per cent, saying it will create parity with those on private land.
It’s estimated to cost the city about $90,000, on top of the nearly $300,000 bill to run the pedestrian mall.
St. John’s City Councillor Ron Ellsworth (VOCM News)
Tom Davis was the only councilor to vote against it, given the cost, while Ron Ellsworth reluctantly voted in favour.
“This is more of a good gesture in economic development and supporting our downtown businesses who are struggling,” he said. “No, it’s going to make or break their business or keep them afloat if they’re about to die, but it certainly shows that the city is supportive of what they’re doing, interested in what they’re doing, and trying to help where we can.”
A link to a detailed breakdown of the fees for various categories is available on the city’s website.
