The concept of restaurant patios on city sidewalks in Steinbach is being given one more year to prove itself. City council met in committee Tuesday night to review the trial policy which has mainly been used by Sawney Beans.

Mayor Chris Goertzen says the majority of council likes the idea of these patio establishments downtown but also noted a couple of concerns need to be addressed.

"Council felt very strongly, and this was completely around the table, that, if we are going to proceed with having patios on our right-of-ways, we want to make sure there's a stronger enforcement of the No Smoking Policy, also making sure that the design of the patios takes into consideration the drainage in the area, making sure that nothing is hindered when it comes to drainage."

Some councillors noted the temporary sidewalk that was built in the curb lane in front of Sawney Beans caused ponding of water in the area.

Council voted 5-2 to continue the trial for one more year.

Councillors Michael Zwaagstra and John Fehr were opposed saying they had heard enough negative comments about things like smoking and drainage that they could not support it.

Councillor Susan Penner noted council keeps talking about a vision for a vibrant downtown and it should therefore encourage these kinds of establishments.