ATHOL — For the second time, the Selectboard did not approve a sidewalk sale and exterior display permit requested by Sudad Saman of George’s Farms, 358 Main St., to put tables and chairs outside the business.
Saman was not at the recent meeting, as requested by the Selectmen, to explain his request to have three to four tables and six to eight chairs outside.
Selectboard member Lee Chauvette said the board needed clarification as to what the tables would be used for, and noted that the town’s exterior display policy requires 36 inches of space left on the sidewalk for handicapped access.
“This would be cutting it close,” he said.
The Selectboard did not see any change in Saman’s second application, on which he wrote he would like to have the tables and chairs “on the side of the store to increase traffic to my store.” There is an empty grassy lot, posted as private property, between the store and Athol Savings Bank, but it was not clear whether he intended to place the tables and chairs there or directly on the sidewalk.
Chauvette said, “We are not trying to restrict business owners or make it difficult.”
He withdrew his motion to approve the permit and no action was taken.
A one-year permit for sidewalk sales was approved for John Wilson of Yours, His & Ours at 605 Main St, which sells furniture and antiques. There is some concern about the business’ panel truck parking in front of the store, blocking drivers’ view. Complaints were made to the police department recently, but it was found the truck is parked legally in the spot.
Town Manager Shaun Suhoski said recommendations from the building inspector and fire chief have been noted and the permit was approved with the stipulation that the recommendations be followed. The town’s building inspector requires items be placed so that there is not less than 48 inches of walkway for passage. The fire chief recommended allowing limited combustibles in front of the storefront.
Suhoski said a lot of things can be combustible, and Selectboard memeber Rebecca Bialecki voiced concern about allowing any combustibles.
The board appointed Bialecki as an alternate member of the Montachusett Regional Planning Board. It was noted that Duane Truehart is the town’s delegate.
Elvin Chartrand was appointed to the Zoning Board of Appeals.
It was noted there is a vacancy on the Shade Tree Commission.