Richmond council rejects alcohol sales at youth hockey tournaments

The Regular Council meeting held on December 9, 2024, in New Richmond, Wisconsin, focused primarily on a contentious proposal regarding the sale of alcohol at youth hockey events. The council convened to discuss the implications of allowing alcohol sales during these events, which has sparked significant debate among council members and community stakeholders.

The discussion began with a council member expressing initial support for the proposal, citing the challenges of fundraising for youth sports. They noted that previous events had not encountered any issues, as confirmed by the local police chief. However, this sentiment was met with skepticism from other council members who raised concerns about the appropriateness of alcohol sales at youth sporting events.

A key point of contention was the comparison of this proposal to other local events where alcohol is permitted. Some council members pointed out that while alcohol sales are allowed at adult leagues, they are not permitted at youth tournaments sanctioned by the Wisconsin Interscholastic Athletic Association (WIAA). This led to a broader discussion about the messaging surrounding alcohol consumption and its potential impact on youth.

Several council members voiced their opposition to the proposal, emphasizing the need to find alternative fundraising methods that do not involve alcohol. They expressed concerns about the implications of normalizing alcohol consumption in environments where children are present, arguing that it sends the wrong message to young people.

Despite the arguments presented in favor of the proposal, the council ultimately voted against it. The motion to approve the application for alcohol sales at youth hockey events failed, with a vote tally of two in favor and three against. This decision reflects the council's commitment to prioritizing the well-being of youth in the community over potential financial gains from alcohol sales.

The meeting concluded with a clear directive for the hockey association to explore other fundraising avenues, reinforcing the council's stance on maintaining a family-friendly environment at youth sporting events. The council's decision underscores the ongoing dialogue about the role of alcohol in community activities and the importance of safeguarding youth interests.