Selectmen approve Harborview lease space after special-amusement hearing

Stonington Selectmen unanimously approved a lease allowing Harborview Restaurant to use the front space in front of its deck for outdoor seating if COVID conditions require, following a public hearing on the business's Special Amusement application.

Town Manager Billings told the board the Harbor View special amusement application was complete, published in the local paper and had drawn no public comments. Gail Stinson, the new owner of the Harborview Restaurant, described her intention to retain deck seating and to have the town lease the front space later if pandemic conditions necessitated expanding outdoor seating.

The Selectmen discussed timing options, including a seasonal June–September approach, and approved the lease by motion of John Steed, seconded by John Robbins; the vote was 4-0 in the meeting record provided. Board members said they were supportive of measures that help local businesses adjust to pandemic-related restrictions.

The hearing also covered routine business: minutes and warrant approvals and scheduling for forthcoming Planning Board and Harbor Committee meetings. The Special Amusement ordinance revisions and other regulatory updates were referenced as part of the town's ongoing ordinance review work.

Next steps: TM Billings will finalize lease paperwork and follow town procedures for any seasonal or conditional terms; the Harborview special amusement file remains part of the town record and will proceed through any required permitting steps.