Restaurant Owners Rally Against Proposed 900% Increase in Outdoor Dining Fees
A group of restaurant owners in Plymouth is threatening to close their outdoor dining spaces if the city moves forward with plans to significantly increase fees and reduce available patio space in the downtown area. While city officials emphasize that no decisions have been made yet, the restaurant owners claim they were taken aback when the issue was discussed at a recent city commission meeting.
Under the proposed plan, outdoor dining fees would rise from the current annual rate of $1.50 per square foot of patio space to $15 per square foot, marking a staggering 900% increase. Additionally, restaurants would face an increase in the annual flat fee for outdoor dining. The sudden nature of the proposal has left many restaurant owners feeling blindsided, as they were not consulted prior to the city commission meeting.
John Corsi, owner of Pizza e Vino and Barrio Cocina Y Tequileria, expressed his shock at the lack of communication from city officials. He stated, The number they came up with is completely illogical. They’re not even thinking it through in terms of how it would hurt us – to the point where it doesn’t even make sense to open the patio. Corsi’s sentiments were echoed by other restaurant owners who argue that the proposed fees are unreasonable, especially considering the substantial investments they have already made to create a vibrant dining atmosphere in downtown Plymouth.
Comparisons were made to neighboring cities such as Northville, Ferndale, and Ann Arbor, where outdoor dining fees range from $1 to $1.50 per square foot. The potential fee increase in Plymouth, therefore, appears to be significantly higher than in other areas. Furthermore, the city commission’s discussion also included a proposal to increase the required pedestrian sidewalk clearance from 6 to 9 feet, which would result in a reduction of patio space to accommodate the new requirements.
Landon Garrett, owner of Park Place Gastro Pub and Ironwood Grill, expressed his frustration at the potential loss of space he invested in. Losing approximately 30% of his new outdoor dining space would greatly impact his business. Garrett emphasized that if he had been aware of the proposed changes, he would not have made the investment. We had city approval for everything we built, Garrett said. We talked about color, we talked about railings, everything.
Ryan Yaquinto, owner of Compari’s on the Park, Sardine Room, and Fiamma Grille, voiced concerns about having to move his patios away from the buildings, where they have been located since 2000. This would create a busy thoroughfare for staff and customers to navigate, posing potential logistical challenges.
Dean Rovinelli, owner of Barrio Cocina Y Tequileria, criticized the city’s wording in their documents, particularly taking issue with the statement that restaurants are using public property for private economic gain. Rovinelli argued that outdoor dining spaces do not replace indoor dining but rather provide an added experience for guests. He stressed the vibrancy created by outdoor dining as an important aspect of the city’s branding.
Mayor Nick Moroz emphasized that the July 17 meeting was merely a discussion and no decisions have been made. The city commission is working alongside the Plymouth Downtown Development Authority and the city administration to develop a new outdoor dining policy that balances the need for walkability and outdoor dining. Moroz confirmed that ongoing dialogue with restaurant owners will continue, with further discussions scheduled for the upcoming city commission meeting on August 7.
While the outcome remains uncertain, the restaurant owners in Plymouth are making their opposition to the proposed fee increase clear. Their collective threat to close outdoor dining spaces puts pressure on the city to reconsider the potential impact on local businesses. As negotiations continue, both parties will need to find common ground and ensure that any new policy supports the growth and vitality of Plymouth’s downtown dining scene.
