Kingston restaurants prepare for winter patio season as COVID-19 pandemic continues Last week, Kingston city council unanimously approved a motion put forward by Councillor Jim Neill to extend the patio season.It is an idea that was rejected back in 2016, but these are different times, according to Neill.“I think council has made the right decision,” Neill says.The concern four years ago was snow removal around the patios, which Fortier said is a weak argument.“Pandemic, no pandemic, we want the streets to be cleaned,” says Fortier. “It’s our responsibility to clear the sidewalk in front of our business and we do that with great care.”“It’s going to be a challenge for Public Works with patios still open, but I think it’s a challenge we.