Commission adopts downtown common consumption area ordinance after debate; vote 3-2

The Manhattan City Commission on June 17 adopted Ordinance 7760 to establish a permanent downtown common consumption area (CCA) that will allow patrons of participating licensed establishments to carry alcohol within a mapped downtown boundary from 8 a.m. to 11 p.m.

Jared Wasseringer, assistant city manager, described the ordinance and the administrative steps needed if the commission approved the boundary: the city would apply to the Kansas Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) for a CCA permit, pay a $100 annual state fee, and require participating licensees to complete state ABC forms and a city participant permit (a $250 annual fee). Wasseringer said the city would also publish informational signage and an FAQ for businesses and the public.

Wasseringer detailed operational rules discussed with stakeholders, including the state ABC and RCPD: licensed providers must use a single‑serve, non‑glass container that displays the licensee’s identifying…