Downtown Youngstown business owners object to the city closing West Federal Street for festivals

YOUNGSTOWN

Business owners on West Federal Street, downtown’s busiest road, say outdoor festivals that close access to their establishments are financially hurting them.

Anne Massullo Sabella, co-owner of the Avalon Downtown pizzeria, 17 W. Federal St., told city council today that her business and others nearby are losing customers because of downtown festivals that block the street.

Councilwoman Annie Gillam, D-1st, whose ward includes downtown, said she plans to have a meeting next month of downtown business owners to come up with solutions to this issue.

Meanwhile, council voted to bill downtown business owners at least $150 if they fail to remove snow and ice from in front of their properties.

However, after hearing concerns from business owners about a 7 a.m. deadline after a snowstorm, council agreed to move that time to 9 a.m.

Also, council voted 5-2 to increase its motor-vehicle license fee from $5 to $10.

The increase will generate $550,000 more a year that will go to road improvements and for local matches to obtain state and federal money for street repair projects, Mayor John A. McNally said.

Council voted 7-0 to streamline the city’s laws on obtaining permits for parades, block parties and other events on public streets or rights of way.

The city will require a $100 deposit for events that include outdoor cooking, at least three food vendors or serve alcohol, said Michael McGiffin, coordinator of downtown events and special projects.

For the complete story, read Thursday’s Vindicator and Vindy.com