Derby council adds Dukarski Park to list of facilities where alcohol may be sold, subject to city manager approval

Derby — The Derby City Council on Nov. 10 voted to add Dukarski Park to the list of city-owned facilities where alcoholic liquor and enhanced cereal-malt-beverage may be allowed under terms established by the city manager.

City staff explained the change is the first step in a multi-step permitting process: the city plans to apply for an on-premise liquor license for the park and to coordinate with its concessions vendor to allow beer sales at the ballpark once the park and concession stand are operational. Staff described alcohol sales as a revenue source to help pay for maintenance items such as turf replacement and lighting.

Councilmembers sought and received clarifications that the ordinance would not permit unregulated drinking across the park: sales and consumption would be subject to rental or alcohol-use agreements, insurance requirements and designated/supervised areas. Councilmember Truitt asked whether coolers would be allowed; staff said no for general events and that permitted uses would be tightly controlled. Councilmember Molt moved to adopt the ordinance; the motion passed 6-0.