Granting a Grace Period for CafeTO Applications Awaiting Insurance Changes - by Councillor Joe Cressy, seconded by Mayor John Tory

Many businesses have discovered that due to delays in the private insurance market, they could not receive quotes for reinstating full liability coverage before the end of March. For these establishments, their applications were incomplete as a result of this challenge outside of their control, and they will miss the earliest possible installation dates. While I recognize that the firm cut-off date to qualify for early installation was intended to ensure that City staff can focus on the applications of businesses most prepared to set up their CafeTO spaces on an accelerated timeline, I believe this unforeseen challenge with insurance providers requires a more flexible and fair response. I am requesting that City staff work with CafeTO applicants and offer a grace period for those who would have complete applications if not for the delay reinstating insurance for full operating liability, with the goal of achieving early installation for these applicants to the greatest extent possible. The CafeTO program is vital for our local businesses and main streets after a very difficult winter, and although vaccines give us hope, there will be more challenging months ahead. Working with these operators to allow an extra month or more of outdoor dining is essential.