Council agrees to start ordinance process to allow alcohol at Godwin Mercado; staff recommends city‑run liquor sales to support venue sustainability

City staff presented options Sept. 8 for allowing alcohol service at the Godwin Mercado and council members voted to begin the ordinance change process that would permit alcohol at the site. Staff recommended the city apply for a Civic Center liquor license and run sales through trained city staff; council asked for more detail ahead of final consideration.

What staff proposed: Krishan (city staff) outlined three models for alcohol service: - Option 1: city holds a license but contracts a caterer; the caterer must hold a licensed catering permit and would handle sales and service (low city revenue, reduced liability but less control). - Option 2 (staff recommendation): city holds a Civic Center class C license, buys and sells alcohol directly and hires/trains staff to serve (maximum revenue, full…