Outdoor dining will become a permanent feature of LA County’s dining scene – Daily News

Al fresco dining may remain a permanent feature of Los Angeles County’s vibrant dining scene, with the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors voting on Tuesday, June 8 to support state legislation to expand dining options. air.

Supervisors Kathryn Barger and Janice Hahn co-wrote a motion to support two state bills: one on al fresco dining and the other to extend liquor licenses.

“Al fresco dining should be one of the things we cling to after the pandemic ends,” Hahn said. “The restaurants liked it, the diners adopted it and we have good weather to make it pleasant all year round.”

Barger and Hahn defended temporary alfresco dining last summer to help struggling restaurants amid the pandemic, and regional county planners have stepped up approvals.

“We need to do everything we can to make this program a permanent option for restaurants across the region,” said Barger. “This is a valuable resource for the restaurant and hospitality industry, which has been severely affected by the COVID-19 closures. “

Assembly Bill 61 would allow local governments to expand outdoor dining. Senate Bill 314 would allow businesses that have been granted a temporary liquor license to expand their operations during the pandemic the option of making that expansion permanent.

Barger and Solis also proposed a second motion asking the county CEO to come up with guidelines to expand outdoor dining options and help restaurant owners move to permanent plans.

Barger urged residents to enjoy al fresco dining and spend money on local businesses.

“As we head into the beloved and infamous Los Angeles County summer months, let’s all enjoy the great weather outdoors while supporting our local restaurants,” she said.