Legislator Todaro proposes using CARES Act funds to help extend outdoor dining in colder weather

Modified: September 18, 2020 8:44am

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Friday, September 18, 2020

Members of the Erie County Legislature’s Minority Caucus are pushing for a portion of CARES Act funding to be given to help restaurants continue or create expanded outdoor seating as temperatures drop.

The resolution, introduced Thursday, asks that $1 million be allocated to help restaurant owners purchase heating equipment, supplies, or be used to help offset labor costs to expand and heat outdoor space. Grants depending on the size and scope of heating plans would be available. In order for a restaurant to qualify, they must have plans to create, enhance, or expand a heated outdoor dining site while maintaining COVID-19 restricted seating capacity and guidelines.

Many local restaurants are finding creative solutions to continue serving patrons outdoors. However, a recent survey suggests 90 percent of New York State restaurants are unlikely to be profitable in the next six months under the current restrictions. (WBEN: Survey: 90% of NYS restaurants unlikely to be profitable in the next 6 months)

Legislator Frank Todaro said, “Expanded outdoor dining space has been a huge benefit to restaurant owners that I have spoken with throughout my legislative district and Erie County. As fall and winter approaches, many will need assistance affording equipment to continue serving outdoors. This funding could be a lifeline for them, and I hope we can act quickly to provide that assistance.”