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Selectmen approve alcohol permit for Sandwich Rodeo amid animal‑welfare objections
Summary
The Sandwich Board of Selectmen unanimously approved an alcohol permit for the Common Man Events’ Sandwich Rodeo on May 27, 2026, after public comment from animal‑welfare advocates and supporters; the board noted the event itself had already been approved and limited the liquor-permit decision to regulatory compliance.
The Sandwich Board of Selectmen voted unanimously May 27 to approve an alcohol permit for the Common Man Events Sandwich Rodeo and signed a letter stating the board had no objection to the request.
The vote followed public comment both opposing and defending the rodeo. Meg Hodge told the board she believed "the Board was elected to represent the will of the people" and questioned the decision to allow the event. Jane O’Brien, who introduced herself as representing the New Hampshire Animal Rights League and lakes‑region constituents, objected specifically to bull riding and said she was concerned for animal welfare and public safety.
Supporters said the event is regulated and family‑oriented. Scott Crowder, who said he has attended previous rodeos as a family event, described the event structure and cited the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association’s (PRCA) animal‑welfare rules. He told the board the rodeo runs with doors open about 4 PM and, for alcohol service, "approximately 5–9 PM." Bryan Peaslee, who helped approach the town about the event, estimated attendance at roughly 2,500 people per night.
Chair Joanne Haight and Selectmen Caroline Nesbitt and Adam Heard discussed the permitting parameters and statutory compliance; Nesbitt moved to approve the permit and a related letter documenting the board's lack of objection, and the motion passed unanimously.
Why it matters: The permit clears the way for alcohol service at a large community event that drew vocal public concern over animal treatment and camp‑area behavior. The board emphasized that only the liquor permit was before them and that other regulatory parameters and state rules govern event operations.
The board’s action concluded the matter at this meeting; the Master Plan committee was noted as holding a public hearing July 11, where broader questions about event types and community preferences will be open to public input.
