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Goshen council advances ordinance allowing alcohol at permitted park events under strict conditions
Summary
The council voted on first reading to permit limited alcohol service at parks-based events if organizers obtain permits, ATC approval, insurance, licensed servers and licensed security as required; parks staff and the parks board supported the change to expand event options and revenue.
GOSHEN — The Goshen Common Council on Dec. 11 approved, on first reading, an ordinance that allows the limited possession and consumption of alcohol at city parks for permitted events.
Parks staff explained the change is intended to modernize policy and enable revenue-generating events such as weddings or festival beer gardens that have previously been held only on redevelopment-owned land. "This ordinance request proposes a limited and regulated allowance for alcohol consumption in the parks in conjunction with permitted facilities," said Tanya, a parks department representative. The measure would require event organizers to obtain an event permit, secure ATC permitting, carry insurance and use licensed servers. For larger events the ordinance requires a licensed security company; the parks department would determine the needed staffing level.
Megan Hessel, parks board president, said the parks board debated the change and recommended it to the council. "We did not take upon this ordinance, easily," Hessel said, noting the board wanted to avoid creating a free‑for‑all and saw the change as a tool for select park‑sponsored or permitted events.
Council discussion focused on ensuring public safety, the need for clear permit procedures and whether neighboring jurisdictions allow similar policies; staff noted Elkhart and Mishawaka have comparable frameworks. Councilors agreed the ordinance is not intended to allow casual drinking in parks without a permit. The ordinance passed on first reading by unanimous vote; staff will publish permit requirements and an operational guide before final adoption.
What happens next: Parks staff will post the permitting process, the alcohol permit fee and security standards online and return for a second reading where final operational details will be confirmed.
