Council this week unanimously pre-approved applications to the Liquor and Cannabis Regulation Branch for temporary expanded service area authorizations for any food primary, liquor primary and manufacturer establishments within Delta.
Last month, council had endorsed the COVID-19 Hospitality Adjustment Plan which included implementing a streamlined process for sidewalk patio approvals and also agreed to waive fees associated with those approvals to support the community's economic recovery.
Council also asked the provincial government that liquor licence amendments for patios be expedited, and the government soon announced that a simplified online process had been established for food primary, liquor primary and manufacturer licensees to temporarily expand their service areas until October 31, 2020.
A staff report to council notes applicants will be required to disclose that they have met all local government requirements when applying to the province and Delta would be notified in writing of any authorizations for expanded service areas.
“Staff are recommending this option because reviewing and approving individual applications would delay businesses with beginning to operate their expanded service areas. Additionally, a letter outlining the COVID-19 Hospitality Adjustment Plan has been sent to Delta restaurants and cafes with information related to expanding outdoor patio· areas to offset the loss of indoor seating capacity due to physical distancing requirements,” the report explains.
“Requests to increase the currently approved occupant loads or permanently expand liquor service areas would continue to require a liquor licence amendment application and standard review process would be followed.”
The government recently amended its COVID-19 capacity protocols which had included guidelines requiring establishments not exceed 50 per cent of their usual capacity of patrons at any one time. Taking expanded patios into account, bars and restaurants can now determine their capacity as long as guests are able to physically distance by at least two metres.
The province this week also approved a temporary wholesale pricing model that will allow liquor licensees to purchase beer, wine and spirits at reduced cost.
The government says the measure will provide much-needed financial support for businesses like restaurants, bars and tourism operators.
It will be in place from the end of July 2020 until March 31, 2021, when the program will be reviewed.
Restaurants Canada commended the move, saying it comes at a much needed time as licensed restaurants are reopening under challenging restrictions that make it difficult to just break even.
