DuPage County staff present draft rental rules, alcohol policy for new shelter community room

DuPage County staff presented a draft ordinance to formalize fees and booking procedures for the new community room on the county animal shelter campus, including rules on catering and whether alcohol may be served, during an April 15 meeting.

The ordinance, drafted with input from the State's Attorney's Office, would create a standard contract for outside users that includes insurance requirements and a requirement that any alcohol be served by a third‑party server who is BASSET certified (Beverage Alcohol Sellers and Servers Education and Training). Staff said county employees would not be allowed to serve alcohol and that contracts will specify dram‑shop and other insurance required of event hosts.

Why it matters: The county is seeking to balance revenue and community use of the new facility with liability and animal‑welfare concerns. Allowing rentals and controlled catering could generate operating revenue but requires clear rules on permitting, insurance and who is permitted to serve alcohol.

Laura, an animal services staff member who presented the draft, said the county has received inquiries about private events such as birthday parties and…