Title
Resolution to Approve Outdoor Seating and Live Entertainment for Zal Gaz Grotto, 2070 West Stadium Boulevard, until October 31, 2020 as Special Event
Memorandum
Attached for your consideration is a resolution to approve outdoor seating and live entertainment for Zal Gaz Grotto at 2070 West Stadium Boulevard until October 31, 2020, consistent with an 2020 Limited Permanent Outdoor Service Approval Order from the Michigan Liquor Control Commission. As all restaurants in Michigan during the COVID-19 pandemic, Zal Gaz Grotto is required to limit their indoor seating capacity. City Council may designate certain dates and locations as special events, including any conditions and standards of conduct, as provided in Section 5.16.7.C of Chapter 55 (Unified Development Code).
The Unified Development Code does provide for Temporary Outdoor Sales in Section 5.16.6.K. Temporary Outdoor Sales are available in all mixed-use zoning districts (O, C1, C1A, C1B, C1A/R, D1, D2, C2B, C3) as accessory uses subject to five requirements. One requirement is that the temporary outdoor sales area may not exceed 10% of the business's floor area. Usually, the size restriction is not a limitation for sale tables or display areas, or a picnic table or two. However, during this pandemic, it is proving to be a significant barrier for restaurants attempting to move half of their seating capacity outdoors. Zal Gaz Grotto is a 6,000-square foot business and would be restricted to 600 square feet of Temporary Outdoor Sales area. However, the rear portion of the site is zoned P (Parking) district. None of the allowable temporary outdoor seating, and no other uses except for parking, can be located in the P district.
The Unified Development Code also allows Special Event Sales to be designed by resolution of City Council on certain dates and locations (Section 5.16.7.C). Both the Art Fairs and the University of Michigan home football games are standing special event sales dates and locati...
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