Cedarhurst, Nassau County aims to help small businesses

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In an effort to aid restaurants hit hard by the non-gathering rules implemented because of the coronavirus pandemic, the Village of Cedarhurst offering the eateries a temporary outdoor use permit through Dec. 31.

“This application is for restaurants in Cedarhurst,” Deputy Mayor Ari Brown posted on Facebook. “We decided to put this together to allow for more seating during these difficult times. In other words, when the governor opens up restaurants, there will be some type of restriction as to indoor seating; this application and measure  will allow for more seating outside the premises. We made it as an online interactive form. Feel free to reach out to me with any questions.”

The temporary outside dining is intended to allow restaurants to open while maintaining appropriate social distancing, the village said. Only registered places of public assembly with a valid village use permit will be considered. Tables and chairs lust be removed from the sidewalks by 11 p.m. and stored inside.  

Applications can be submitted by emailing the application to building@cedarhurst.gov. For more information and questions, call the village building department at (516) 295-5770.

County, town programs

Nassau County is also looking to accelerate the return of small business by closing off streets in what are called downtown areas of several communities to allow restaurants to have or expand outdoor dining and for consumers to shop outside.

Broadway in Hewlett and Woodmere was one of the dozen areas cited by the county. Hewlett-Woodmere Business Association President David Friedman said the idea is under consideration for his communities. “We have to evaluate this to see if we have any location (s) where this would be workable,” he said.  

Friedman noted that the Town of Hempstead program that also helps to expedite permits on outdoor dining is one that the HWBA endorses. “We are in favor of that program and encourage our local Hewlett-Woodmere businesses to participate where practical.,” he said.

Business owners can apply online at hempsteadny.viewpointcloud.com.