South Pasadena : No Drinks at Sidewalk Tables
Restaurateurs will not be allowed to serve alcohol to customers sitting at sidewalk tables.
The City Council on Wednesday, with Councilman James C. Hodge Jr. absent and Councilman Amedee Richards abstaining, voted 2 to 1 to reject a staff recommendation to allow the consumption of alcohol in sidewalk dining areas.
“After a couple of beers or wines, people will be out of control. If you don’t believe me, serve us beer instead of water at the next council meeting,” Councilman Paul Zee said.
Acknowledging that Pasadena allows consumption of alcohol at sidewalk tables, he noted that South Pasadena formed in 1888 to be separate.
Zee was supported by a number of public speakers, including School Board President Alice Hwang.
“If the city allows the service of alcoholic beverages on the sidewalk, what are we teaching our children?” Hwang asked.
The council Feb. 17 approved sidewalk dining regulations, including a requirement that establishments have a $1-million liability insurance to cover the city.
Start your day right
Sign up for Essential California for news, features and recommendations from the L.A. Times and beyond in your inbox six days a week.
You may occasionally receive promotional content from the Los Angeles Times.
