Burleson council bans alcohol sales at Chisholm Hall sporting events, allows sales for council-approved special events

On Nov. 17, 2025 the Burleson City Council voted unanimously to amend the city's alcohol sales policy for Chisholm Hall Fields, prohibiting alcohol sales during sporting events and permitting sales only for special events approved by the council.

Deputy City Manager Eric Oskerson told the council the policy is designed to balance community enjoyment with youth protection and public safety, to ensure compliance with the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission (TABC), and to set standards for designated sales areas, TABC-certified staff and required insurance. Oskerson said the city's contract with third-party operator SFC includes liquor-liability insurance and that projected net revenue from alcohol sales under SFC management would be about $360,000 over five years.

Council members pressed staff for clarity on the policy's scope and enforcement. Members confirmed the policy, as written, prohibits alcohol sales during any youth sporting events or practices and during tournaments that target children 12 and under; staff clarified that if players aged 12 and under are on any field during an event, alcohol sales are not allowed. Several council members said managing sales by age or field would be impractical and would risk scheduling confusion.

Public comments reinforced concerns about youth safety. Speaker cards read into the record included Katie Johnson urging the council to "prohibit alcohol sales at Chisholm Hall Ballparks during any sporting events," Rocky Tucker opposing alcohol at youth events (defining "youth" as up to age 18), and Courtney Allen saying "selling alcohol at kids sporting events is not putting your citizen safety first." Local resident Bill Janish, who identified himself by name and address, told the council he worried the city was not prepared for the security and enforcement those sales would require.

After discussion about special-event oversight and security — staff noted the existing special events committee reviews event needs and can require police or fire services — Council member Larry moved to amend policy CSO 59-74-10-20-25 to ban alcohol sales at sporting events and allow sales only for special events approved by the council. The motion was seconded by Adam and carried by a unanimous vote. Staff advised that the change would require minor subsequent ordinance revisions on first and second reading.

The council then closed the meeting; the city secretary confirmed there was no need for an executive session, and the body adjourned at 6:26 p.m.