Council asks staff to study expanding alcohol allowances and OSE rules for public-property events

Town staff asked the council for direction on three OSE items: whether to expand allowed beverage types at permitted outdoor events (beyond beer and wine to include spirits), whether to allow for-profit entities (instead of limiting to nonprofits) to receive OSE permits that include alcohol sales, and whether to extend existing Central Business District allowances to other town properties. The discussion was prompted by inquiries from potential event organizers and a proposed parks leasing arrangement (Sandhills Bogeys/track-side property) that could require code changes.

Parks and Recreation staff and public-safety staff explained the operational focus of the OSE review: applicants provide maps and safety plans that are routed to police, fire and other departments for sign-off; off-duty officers, barricades, traffic management and cleanup are typical cost items that can be required of event organizers. Council members requested samples from other municipalities (e.g., Aberdeen, Pinehurst) and the town's OSE checklist to ensure consistent, operational criteria rather than content-based denial. Questions included how ABC/off-site permits interact with local approvals and whether free distribution of alcohol at events is covered by existing rules.

Staff agreed to return with a checklist, examples of peer ordinances and ABC-related requirements, recommended criteria for allowable beverages and locations, and a proposed fee structure and safety checklist for council review at a future work session.