During the recent Brookings City Council meeting on November 26, 2024, discussions centered around the ongoing challenges of underage alcohol consumption at local establishments, particularly on busy Thursday nights. The owner of a popular restaurant shared insights into their efforts to comply with regulations and prevent underage drinking, which has become a pressing concern for both the business and the community.

The restaurant owner reported that despite implementing measures such as ID scanners and staff training, issues persist, especially during peak hours when college students flock to the venue for half-price margaritas. The owner emphasized that while they check IDs regularly, the high volume of patrons makes it difficult to ensure compliance consistently. They noted that the establishment has faced fines for serving underage customers, prompting a more rigorous approach to ID verification.

Council members expressed concern over the apparent concentration of underage drinking incidents on Thursday nights, questioning whether the problem might extend beyond that specific timeframe. They inquired about the training process for new staff and how the restaurant ensures that all employees adhere to ID-checking protocols. The owner explained that all staff are required to take a training class and that there are reminders in place for ID checks at the start of each shift.

In response to the council's inquiries, the owner acknowledged the challenges of managing a busy environment but reiterated their commitment to preventing underage drinking. They have installed signs throughout the establishment to inform patrons of the ID-checking policy and have increased the number of staff members tasked with scanning IDs during peak hours.

The council's discussion highlighted the importance of maintaining community safety and compliance with alcohol regulations. As the restaurant continues to refine its practices, the council will monitor the situation to ensure that measures are effective in addressing underage drinking and protecting the community's interests. The meeting underscored the ongoing dialogue between local businesses and government officials as they work together to foster a safe and responsible environment for all residents.