Mantua approves outdoor drinking area in village downtown

In addition to a long hearing that led to the firing of Police Chief Joe Urso, Mantua Village Council also approved Mantua’s first Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area in a meeting that began on Oct. 21.

The DORA will allow people over the age of 21 to consume alcoholic beverages in specially marked, “non-glass cups” or bottles that they may obtain from local establishments. DORA drinkers will wear special wristbands signifying their status.

Mantua’s DORA will encompass the area from 10714 Main St. to 10676 Main St. and 10675 Main St. It will include 4637-4639 West Prospect and both sides of East Prospect from 4664 to 4690, including a vacant parcel.

The area also includes the west side of First Street, including 10723, and both sides of Franklin Street between Main Street and First Street, including 4680 Franklin. DORA hours are from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Thursdays through Saturdays, and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Participating establishments must adhere to all licensing requirements and provide proper signage indicating their DORA involvement. Local police and safety personnel will be on duty during DORA hours. Council will review the DORA’s impact regularly, re-approve it every five years and make necessary adjustments to improve its effectiveness.