Franklin Beer Board approves alcohol permits for four fall community events

The Franklin Beer Board unanimously approved special-event alcohol permits on Oct. 8 for four community events scheduled this month and next, including a Rotary Club golf tournament, a seated dinner on Harlinsdale Farm’s new bridge, a reception tied to the Vision City conference, and a Feed America First fundraising banquet.

Staff told the board each application was complete and inspections had returned favorably before recommending approval. "All the inspections came back, and staff does recommend approval of the application," a staff member told the board during the Rotary Club request. The permits passed on unanimous voice votes, with Alderman Barnhill, Alderman Caesar and the chair voting yes on each item.

Rotary Club of Franklin at Breakfast Charities requested a one-time special-event beer permit for its 30th annual golf classic at Westhaven Golf Club on Oct. 14 (10:30 a.m.–6 p.m.). Phyllis Molineaux, president of Franklin Rotary at Breakfast, said, "This is our first time to request an application for license," explaining that the beer for the event is being donated while Westhaven employees will serve. Staff clarified that donated alcohol served by a venue’s staff requires a special-event permit.

Friends of Franklin Parks sought a permit for "Dinner on the Bridge" at Harlinsdale Farm on Oct. 15 (5 p.m.–9 p.m.). Kelly Baker, an event planner for Friends of Franklin Parks, described the plan as "a 200-guest seated dinner on the bridge" to honor Jillian Bibb, with Events & Catering by Suzette providing licensed bartenders. Baker said the organizers have a tent backup and a rain date. Board members confirmed that the bridge would be blocked to pedestrian and bicycle traffic for the duration of the dinner.

Franklin Tomorrow requested a permit for a sunset cocktail reception at Hayes House at Harlinsdale Farm on Oct. 16 (5 p.m.–8:30 p.m.) as part of a three-day Vision City conference hosted in partnership with Seaside Institute. Executive director Mindy Tate said the reception is part of the conference schedule and that the event will be served by contracted bartenders; staff noted an ABC license was secured for the reception.

Feed America First applied for a permit for a new fundraising banquet at Liberty Hall Event Space on Nov. 6 (5 p.m.–10 p.m.). Julie Bridal, director of development, said the event replaces prior dance-centered fundraisers and will feature live entertainment, a cash bar and a catered buffet. Staff again recommended approval after inspections were completed.

Each permit was approved following a short presentation from staff and the applicant, brief board questions, a motion and a second; the board recorded unanimous approval on each vote. The meeting concluded without further business and the chair adjourned the session.