By Howard Koplowitz
An Italian restaurant in Howard Beach easily received Community Board 10’s approval to renew its permit to operate a sidewalk cafÉ during the board’s meeting last week.
CB 10 Chairwoman Betty Braton said she had not received any complaints about the enclosed sidewalk cafÉ operated by Carosello at 162−54 Cross Bay Blvd.
She said a representative from the restaurant was at the CB 10 meeting, but there was “no need” for a presentation.
Without discussion, the board unanimously approved the renewal.
“We got no controversy on this since it’s a renewal,” said CB 10 Vice Chairman John Marus.
New CB 10 member George Russo, whose family operates Russo’s on the Bay across the street from Carosello as well as two other Italian establishments, abstained and cited a conflict of interest.
Aside from the sidewalk cafÉ, Carosello has three party rooms, including the 75−person Carosello Room, where a carousel top hangs on the ceiling and spins.
After gaining CB 10’s support, the permit goes to the city Department of Consumer Affairs, which oversees sidewalk cafÉ permits, and the City Council.
Reach reporter Howard Koplowitz by e−mail at hkoplowitz@cnglocal.com or by phone at 718−229−0300, Ext. 173.
