Tables, chairs and benches now to be included in Decorah's sidewalk ordinance

The City of Decorah's Street Committee is recommending changes to the city's ordinance regulating what can be placed on sidewalks.

Currently businesses are allowed to place signs in space within three feet of a building--if the sidewalk is 10 feet wide or more.  The space is limited to two feet for sidewalks narrower than 10 feet.

On Tuesday night the members of the Street Committee unanimously approved adding tables, chair and benches to the items regulated by the ordinance.  City officials say they will be contacting the Decorah Area Chamber of Commerce and the Downtown Decorah Betterment Association for help in publicizing the new rules.