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DeLand commission denies request to allow on-site alcohol sales at Firecracker Festival
Summary
After mixed testimony on safety and family character, the City Commission voted to deny a request to formally allow controlled alcohol sales at the city’s large annual Firecracker Festival.
The DeLand City Commission voted June 2 to deny a staff request to allow controlled sale and consumption of alcoholic beverages at the city’s Firecracker Festival, citing concerns about event scale, enforcement and the family-oriented nature of the celebration.
Parks and Recreation Director explained the proposal as an attempt to regulate and contain alcohol where, informally, attendees sometimes bring coolers. “We thought it might be an avenue to control it somewhat and also, make revenue from it,” the director said, citing past events where wristbands and controlled sales were used.
Several commissioners said they worried formal permission would change the festival’s character and increase enforcement burdens. “Because I consider it one of our most family friendly events… I would personally prefer that we continue the tradition of not allowing alcohol at the firecracker festival,” Commissioner Paiva said. Commissioner Paula Reid and Vice Mayor Lori Tolland raised concerns about mixing alcohol and firearms given recent high-profile incidents in the area and questioned whether the city could effectively police alcohol use across an event that can draw “10 to 15,000” people, as one speaker observed.
Other commissioners noted the city permits alcohol at other events and that Parks and Recreation staff planned to monitor and contain any sales with wristband systems similar to other local events. “We have a lot of events where alcohol is allowed… It may prevent some people from bringing alcohol because it's available,” one commissioner said in debate.
After discussion the commission voted on a motion to deny the request. The motion to deny was made by Commissioner Paiva and seconded by Vice Mayor Davis; the motion carried on a voice vote.
Outcome: the Firecracker Festival will continue under the city’s existing policy prohibiting alcohol in parks; staff and police will continue current enforcement practices for unauthorized consumption.
