How to resolve AdBlock issue? Council Approves Outdoor
Dining, State Must Act
The council approved amending City Code to permit temporary outdoor seating areas for eating and drinking establishments. The measure will be open to every food and beverage business in Saratoga Springs, said Accounts Commissioner Dillon Moran. “We’re still dealing with the effects of the pandemic and this is essential to the economy of Saratoga Springs,” he added.
Eating/drinking license holders are required to apply for an outdoor seating permit via the city’s Department of Accounts. The permit will then be reviewed by the newly formed Committee on Outdoor Dining, comprised of the Fire Battalion Chief and a handful of appointed city officials. Final approval would be authorized by City Council vote.
The state must also act, specifically related to the issue of the serving of alcohol beverages outside. Moran said he is working with local and state political leaders regarding the issue.
A permit fee, of a not-yet-determined amount will apply and is expected to vary in cost as per the amount of space that will be used. Those fees will be announced at the next City Council meeting. The permits, to be issued annually, will remain in effect until Nov. 1 of the year in which they were issued.
CRB: Proposal
Anticipated in April
A fourth Public Hearing was held this week regarding the potential formation of civilian police review board. It is anticipated a proposal will be presented to the City Council by Public Safety Commissioner James Montagnino in advance of the next council meeting on April 5.
SOTC is Saturday
Mayor Ron Kim announced the State of the City Address will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, March 19 in the Music Hall at City Hall. The event is open to the public. Congressman Paul Tonko will introduce the mayor. The SOTC address may also be viewed via live stream at www.saratoga-springs.org.
March is Gambling
Awareness Month
The city issued a proclamation highlighting regional, state and national councils on Problem Gambling naming March as Gambling Awareness Month.
“We are a gambling town, but we are also a town that respects responsible gambling,” Mayor Ron Kim said.
Problem gambling affects more than 600,000 state residents of all ages, races and ethnic backgrounds, according to the New York Council on Problem Gambling, and promoting public awareness provides an educational tool for both policy makers and the public about warning signs and available support for individuals and their families struggling with problems related to gambling activity. For more information and resources, go to: strongerthanyouthinkny.org.
