Combs issues executive order regarding outdoor dining services in Charleston

Staff Report

Charleston is among the many other communities in Illinois set to enter the third phase of Gov. Pritzker’s Restore Illinois plan beginning May 29.

Phase three allows for restaurants and bars to reopen for outdoor seating and curbside services only, and Charleston Mayor Brandon Combs signed an executive order Tuesday lifting some restrictions on outdoor dining.

Pritzker encouraged local governments to help restaurants and bars expand outdoor seating, and Combs plans to do so by lifting restrictions regarding minimum parking spots, the use of public right of way and the use of public spaces for outdoor dining services.

In the order, Combs said that these restrictions are only to be lifted when Charleston enters phase three of the plan and will continue until regular indoor services can safely resume.

He also stated that restaurant and bar owners must submit plans detailing their use of public spaces for outdoor dining to be reviewed and approved. State and local health guidelines must also be adhered to and the businesses would need to work with the Coles County Health Department for further guidance on how to safely reopen.

According to the guidelines issued by the state under phase three, restaurants and bars open for outdoor services must keep six feet between tables and any other seating areas and parties must be six people or fewer.

 

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