A proposed crackdown on noisy outdoor spaces at Minneapolis bars and restaurants is off the table while owners try to deal with complaints voluntarily, according to the Uptown-area City Council member who sponsored the proposal.
Council Member Meg Tuthill said she'll delay her proposal until December. She had sought to impose new limits on patios, rooftops and sidewalk cafes outside of downtown but now said that she wants residents and the hospitality industry to keep meeting on noise issues.
Owners are paying for two extra squad cars to patrol the Uptown area on certain nights in hopes of discouraging rowdy behavior. They're also planning to hire a sound consultant that will monitor the noise from amplified music and the voices of patrons at the establishments and on their way to and from their cars, according to Dan McElroy, executive director of the Minnesota Restaurant Association.
Cab stands have also been created to encourage restaurant customers to use taxis rather than walking through neighborhoods to cars. Bar and restaurant patrons will also start seeing posters and drink coasters encouraging them to lower the volume.
STEVE BRANDT
