Council permits limited use of Centennial logo on Point Distilleries product after contentious debate

Port Richey City Council on May 13 approved a resolution authorizing Point Distilleries to use the city’s Centennial logo on a limited run of 100 commemorative bottles. The vote was 4–1 with Vice Mayor Chris Mayer the lone dissent.

The Centennial Committee had recommended allowing the distillery to produce a commemorative “aged spiced rum” bottle using the official centennial artwork. Under the proposed arrangement, Point Distillery would manufacture the run and Spartan Manor — which holds the liquor-license distribution capability — would handle distribution and sales; Spartan Manor would then donate proceeds back to the city or Centennial activities, according to staff. City staff and committee members emphasized the item was a limited-edition souvenir rather than a city sale.

The proposal generated sustained public comment and council debate. Several young residents urged the council to consider nonalcoholic keepsakes — for example, coffee mugs or sparkling nonalcoholic beverages in similar commemorative packaging — because some residents and families are negatively affected by alcohol. One public speaker, who identified as the daughter of residents affected by alcoholism, said the city should “consider something more family-oriented” as a centennial memento. Others who support the distillery product said it is a collectible item and that people collect commemorative spirits without promoting drinking.

Mayor John Eric Hoover and three other council members voted in favor of the resolution, arguing the limited run would be a memory item for collectors and event visitors. Vice Mayor Chris Mayer voted no, citing concerns about the city being associated with alcohol and the potential for negative community impacts; Mayer’s “nay” was the sole negative vote recorded. The resolution passed 4–1.

Staff said the distillery would submit required label approvals to state regulators and that Spartan Manor would manage sales; the city would not sell alcohol directly. Council members asked staff to notify residents referenced in the centennial logo artwork and to coordinate with the distillery about the label and distribution plan. Staff also noted there are other centennial souvenirs (T-shirts, coins) and that nonalcoholic options could be pursued in parallel to the distilled product.