2006-07-11
Author: Rae Hathaway
The Portage Hotel has failed in a bid to have what it calls an outdoor licenced dining patio as part of this year's Potato Festival. 

City Council voted against the idea last night, by a 6-1 margin. 

Councillor Earl Porter says they only have six or seven occasional permits, and they're designated mostly for non-profit groups as fundraisers. He adds the Potato Festival is a family event, and it's inappropriate for liquor to be on the front street. 

Portage Hotel owner Dave Andrews is disappointed, and doesn't believe the City's reasons are valid. 

Councillor Walter Keryluk feels the proposal should have been given a chance, and voted against denying the request.