ZELIENOPLE — What might have seemed like a simple request for an extension of an outdoor display permit by borough council Monday night turned into a discussion about how the council should be helping out its Main Street businesses.

Mary Ann Stetz, owner of Mary Ann’s Classy Lady Consignment Boutique, came to borough council Monday night seeking approval for her outdoor clothing display rack.

Stetz had asked for a “permanent” 4-foot clothing display rack that she could place out on the sidewalk to help draw business into the shop.

She had first received approval in September, but council stipulated that her permission for the display had to be approved yearly.

That is a similar requirement for the use of tables and chairs on the public sidewalks for Main Street businesses, including eateries.

While council approved the outdoor display for another year, the action didn’t come without a discussion about her display and her permitted “sandwich board” sign blocking the sidewalk.

It also came with a warning that if any future problems were identified, the permission could be revoked by council.

Councilman Russ Robertson said the combination of a telephone pole, sandwich board sign and the clothing display rack made it hard for someone in a wheelchair to pass by on the sidewalk.

Robertson also said it was difficult to open a car door when parking in front of the shop because of the sandwich board sign placement.

Stetz said she had not received any complaints and assured council that she would place her sign wherever council designated.

Stetz reiterated to council how important the display rack was to her business in attracting customers.

Mayor Tom Oliverio said the council should do the right thing and approve the display again. “Right now, we need to support business people in this town,” he said.

Councilman Drew Mathew said this type of display request was new to borough council. He explained that council wanted to “get it right” because of the potential of other Main Street businesses making similar requests.