Waukesha committee asks staff to draft ordinance to test event-based ‘DORA’ downtown

The Waukesha Ordinance & Licensing Committee on May 12 asked staff to draft a proposed ordinance to allow event-based designated outdoor refreshment areas (DORAs) in downtown Waukesha, after a presentation by the Waukesha Downtown Business Association. The committee directed staff to return a full package for council review.

The WDBA representative described DORAs as time-limited downtown footprints where attendees could buy alcohol from participating businesses and carry it within defined areas. "Individuals would be able to purchase the alcohol from participating businesses and consume in designated areas," the presenter said, describing wristbands, one-drink-per-person limits and branded cups or stickers to mark authorized beverages. She said pilot events — for example a William Street festival or a small test tied to an existing event — would help the city evaluate enforcement and cleanup needs.

Alderman Alicia Helvinsleben, who referred the matter to the committee, said the model could help bring foot traffic to parts of downtown that currently see less activity and urged a cautious, incremental approach. "I'd like to see this happen on a small scale first as a proof of concept," a committee member said, urging "baby steps." Alderman Doreen, identifying herself as the alderman for District 1, said businesses in her area support the idea and noted similar programs in Neenah, Sheboygan and Oshkosh.

City legal counsel explained the legal framework and limits: a DORA operates by creating a municipal exception to the city's open-container ordinance, not by changing state law. "A DORA is, in effect, a temporary suspension of the ordinance prohibiting open containers of intoxicants on public streets," counsel said, noting state laws on sealed containers and restrictions on entering licensed premises with open beverages still apply. The office recommended the committee prepare a complete ordinance package — not just a concept memo — before forwarding a recommendation to council.

Committee members discussed enforcement controls, liability insurance for participating businesses, trash and cleanup plans, and an application process for movable or event-based footprints. The WDBA said it would sell branded cups or stickers and hire cleanup staff funded by sales to help address litter concerns. Community Development staff said they had reached out to peer cities and saw few persistent problems in those examples.

The committee did not vote to adopt policy at the meeting but asked staff and the WDBA to draft a formal ordinance and application process for review at a future meeting, with the intent to present a complete package to the Common Council for consideration.