Street bump-outs and patio extensions have been endorsed, in principle, for Sarnia restaurants until the end of next year.
The practices have been beneficial since the pandemic began.
Councillor Bill Dennis said he "strongly believes the options need to be made permanent."
"I was beyond pleased to see the recommendations in this report, kudos to staff," said Dennis. "I especially like the extension of the patios, the removal of the limits on refreshment vehicles and the review of the extension of the grant program to downtown."
Council has directed staff to remove the limit on the number of business licenses that can be issued on refreshment vehicles and investigate extending the landscape and property improvement project area to support the program.
"I am a big supporter of our local business community and I believe it is absolutely essential in our competitive world that Sarnia be known as a place that is easy to do business," he said. "A place where we roll out the red carpet and where we not only appreciate, but embrace business."
Councillor Brian White was also happy with the staff report.
"I think this is a great approach," White said. "Specifically, the standardization of the patios and being able to implement this approach seasonally with some assurity that accessibility will be met."
Sarnia council has directed staff to hold a public meeting to discuss the temporary measures December 13, 2021 and return no later than the second quarter of 2022 with an implementation plan.
Staff have also been directed to amend the 2022 fees for service to incorporate a permanent 50 per cent reduction in fees applicable to not-for-profit/charitable event organizers.
A final festival and event framework will be presented to council for consideration in the first quarter of the new year.