OrilliaMatters welcomes letters to the editor ([email protected]). The following letters are in response to an article about the scaling back of the See You on the Patio program, published April 14.
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This is wrong on so many levels. As a citizen who has travelled to several cities in Canada, the U.S., and Europe during the nice weather, I find it incomprehensible that (the Downtown Orillia Management Board) could want to scale this back.
For many years cities in Canada have had outside patio dining making it such a pleasure to visit. Some like Old Quebec City close the streets every day for outside dining.
Not only is it desirable for tourists to visit these cities, but it also comes up in conversation when discussing visiting. Do we not want to attract as many tourists as possible to Orillia?
After having COVID to contend with, as a restaurant owner, I would be very discouraged to find that this revenue stream was being scaled back. Why can the DOMB not find a way for the owners of businesses and restaurants to work together to find a way to offer marketing strategies to benefit both (ie. restaurant dining flyers offering specials to different merchants, and merchants offering specials for dining.)
I cannot see how this strategy could not be a win-win situation. Instead of going back, let's go forward and make it better.
Wendy Morgan
Orillia
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As a new resident to this area, one of Orillia’s drawing cards for outdoor culture and dining experience was the aspect of walking through the downtown core without cars!
Park and walk around and enjoy the patio atmosphere. Big mistake not to.
Laurene Green
Orillia
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See you on the Patio was a fantastic idea.
Not only did we (along with a group of friends) enjoy dinner in a great atmosphere, we also walked from one end of the street to the other pretty much every weekend. While we did so, we were checking out which stores were there and window shopping!
I know I returned during open hours to make at least two purchases, so I strongly believe this event brings more traffic downtown and more business to all. It sure would be a shame if it ended
Lori Ewert
Orillia
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I'd like to add my voice to those expressing their surprise and disappointment that this program is being reduced.
It was always a point of pride for us when entertaining guests that we could take them downtown on the summer weekend evenings to show them the vibrant community that is Orillia.
Coming out of another long COVID-filled winter, we were particularly looking forward to that part of summer. Just being able to wander around downtown to show them all the great shops, restaurants, galleries and services that are here was a pleasure. And these lead directly to return visits later to make purchases.
Someone needs to explain to the DOMB members who voted for this reduction that bringing lots of people downtown on foot does NOT hurt their business! How could it? Yes, there may be businesses that by their nature require vehicle access to make a sale, but as a lifelong sales person, I can guarantee that you don't make a sale during the first contact.
Allowing locals and visitors the opportunity to browse through what downtown Orillia has to offer in a relaxed environment is like having a free trade show every Friday and Saturday evening.
The DOMB are shooting themselves in their collective feet, and taking away a great community-building environment that hurts us all. Here's hoping that the feedback that they are getting causes them to reconsider. I would also hope members of the City Council will do what they can to urge the DOMB to reverse this decision. There are always ways of addressing specific concerns.
Craig Marshall
Orillia
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We retired to Orillia in October of 2020 from Toronto and one reason we picked Orillia was for the active, friendly city centre and art community. We loved the Art Walks last year and when I told family and friends in Barrie and Toronto, they all came to enjoy it.
It would be such a shame to stop this wonderful event as more and more cities around the world are doing this type of thing. It's lovely to just walk and visit people, take in a meal and see some art. I would go every week if it was to continue!
I feel it would bring people to the downtown area from cottage country when most of the stores are otherwise closed.. at least the growing and new restaurant businesses and art district would benefit. Plus the fact it's just such a pleasant way to spend a summer evening in our town! Please count my vote as a resounding YES as this is a grand idea and I hope the city council will change their minds and continue this again this summer and frankly every summer.
Deby Melillo
Orillia
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So, Orillia citizens and visitors will be able to say, “See you on the patio” this summer, but only on a very few weekends (following the DOMB's recent decision).
Since a majority of businesses chose not to even vote on the issue at all, it should not be difficult for Council members to speak with those who did vote in opposition, to find out what exactly their individual objections are. Perhaps their concerns, if warranted, could be addressed in ways that allow the patios to be open.
It seems that Council ‘rubber-stamping’ the decision by DOMB will please very few, judging by reactions from restaurants and citizens’ responses.
Margaret Shaver
Mississauga
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My husband and I moved to Orillia last year - we only spend summers here. We were delighted with the “See You on the Patio” program and enjoyed several evenings outside, having dinner, watching the world go by and enjoying the short summer season. It is only two nights per week for two months. It showed a healthy downtown, vibrant and lively.
I see the varying views about the program in this publication, and think that asking the people of Orillia how they feel about this initiative would have been a good idea. I also note that some of the businesses that were involved are disappointed to lose it. They must have invested in furniture and equipment, which after the long COVID time might have been difficult financially.
My view is that whatever improves our city is worth continuing. If few businesses historically vote on such matters, then perhaps the negative decision does not reflect how the majority feel.
Heather Grant
Orillia
