City Considers Sidewalk Permits for Bars

Sidewalks may be getting a little more crowded thanks to a new ordinance introduced to the city council yesterday that would allow straight-up bars to apply for sidewalk-seating permits. The current law allows only establishments who serve food—off a menu, from a working kitchen—to have sidewalk seating.

Alderman Pat O'Connor (40th) proposed the measure, saying "Not everybody wants to go out and have a meal. They might just want a cold beer or a glass of wine. We're not talking about allowing people to get rip-roaring drunk." People do get rip-roaring drunk on the sidewalks of this town every day, Alderman. Don't sweat it too hard. [S-T, photo by MichaelDaKidd]