Council approves Hometown Days alcohol permit and HopHouse retail outlets with conditions

The Verona Common Council on May 12 approved a temporary Class B fermented malt beverage and Class B wine license for the Verona Area Chamber of Commerce for Hometown Days (June 6–8) and authorized HopHouse to operate a contingent full-service retail outlet at the Verona Little League Tournament series on select dates in 2025.

Alder Hoax moved to approve the Hometown Days permit; the motion passed by voice vote. Public-safety staff described the alcohol-consumption controls: the beer tent will be double-fenced, wristbands will identify patrons of legal drinking age, designated entrance/exit points will be staffed, private security and law enforcement will be present, and a safe-ride program will be available. Staff said last year the consumption area was extended with no issues and that city enforcement will monitor the event. Council members asked whether the carnival area is fully fenced; staff replied the beer tent is fenced and entrances will be staffed to prevent alcohol leaving the premises.

Council also approved a contingent request to allow HopHouse to operate a full-service retail outlet at the Verona Little League Tournament series on several dates (May 31; June 7, 14, 28; July 12 and July 26), contingent on Parks, Recreation, and Forestry Commission approval at its May 21 meeting and final state approval from the Department of Alcoholic Beverages. Alder Hoax announced an abstention on the HopHouse vote.