Outdoor patios at bars and restaurants in Chatham-Kent could get an extension until next year.
On Monday, council will consider whether or not to carry over a temporary by-law to permit outdoor patios on private property until January 1, 2023.
Last year, the municipality allowed restaurants and bars to expand their patios as a way to assist workers and businesses impacted by the pandemic, as well as a way to cope with physical distancing requirements.
Licensed establishments were allowed to either create a patio adjacent to their business or increase the size of their existing patio.
"In response to recent trends that show an alarming increase in COVID-19 hospitalizations, the Ontario government temporarily moved the province into Step Two of its Roadmap to Reopen with modifications," the report read. "Part of these measures once again include closing indoor dining at restaurants, bars, and other food or drink establishments."
The report recommends that temporary outdoor patios be permitted throughout 2022 to provide flexibility for local restaurants and bars.
If approved, the continuation of temporary zoning regulations would suspend certain provisions in relation to outdoor patios on private properties.
"This temporary measure allowed the public to safely enjoy service while meeting social distancing requirements and other public health guidelines," reads the report.