Cinnaminson Approves Outdoor Dining For Restaurants, Bars

CINNAMINSON, NJ — Restaurants and bars in Cinnaminson can begin serving food and drink outside immediately after Township Committee passed a resolution allowing them to do so temporarily Monday night.

Cinnaminson Township Committee also unanimously approved a proposed ordinance on introduction that allows restaurants and bars in the township to serve food and drink outside for 120 days during Monday night’s meeting.

The proposed ordinance also allows retail outdoor display areas at existing businesses, subject to local law, for the same period. The public hearing and final vote on the proposal is scheduled for the July 20 meeting.

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The ordinance is under consideration after Gov. Phil Murphy said bars and restaurants could reopen for outdoor dining on Monday as of 6 a.m. on June 15.

Changes to local law to allow for the institution of outdoor dining must be amended through local ordinance, but there is a provision in the governor’s executive order that allows restaurants and bars to operate under a resolution while they await the public hearing and final vote on the proposed ordinance.

The establishments won’t have to go before the planning board or pay zoning and/or construction fees, but they will have to submit sketches of their plans to the zoning officer and fire officials to ensure there are no code violations.

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On Monday, the Whistlers Inn announced it was reopening its outdoor porch. Under this legislation, it would be permitted to expand its footprint for outdoor dining even further. Read more here: Whistlers Inn In Cinnaminson Reopens Outdoor Porch

The Jughandle Inn is also open for outdoor dining, and Sweetwater Bar and Grill is open for takeout.

Officials said the reopening of businesses was for the economic health of the township’s businesses while maintaining the public health of its citizens. They all felt it was a good step. Deputy Mayor Albert Segrest also said it was important to adhere to health guidelines, including maintaining social distancing and wearing face coverings when possible and necessary.

“We need to follow the guidelines as much as possible, so we can continue to move forward and get back to normal life,” Segrest said.

See related: NJ Coronavirus Updates: Here's What You Need To Know