License Committee approves temporary beer-garden permits for Concerts on the Square

The License Committee voted to approve temporary Class B and outdoor beer-garden permits that will allow alcohol sales at the Concerts on the Square series, including an expanded footprint for the May 31 Memorial Day weekend.

Committee members were told that both Green Haven Family Advocates and Main Street Monroe filed applications to serve beer during the event. The clerk summarized the filings as "they've both put in applications to serve beer at the event," and staff said the police department and permit applicants will define non-overlapping sales areas so multiple vendors can operate without conflicting licensed zones.

Staff described the May 31 footprint as larger than for subsequent concerts: both lanes on the east side of the square and two lanes on the south side will be included for the Memorial Day weekend date, while later concerts will use a smaller inside lane on the south side plus both east-side lanes. Staff said the larger crowd expected on May 31 is the reason Green Haven was asked to pull a permit for that date and that the event would serve as a fundraiser for that organization.

A committee member asked whether patrons can carry premixed drinks out of taverns. Staff said patrons may carry drinks out under the relaxed special-event open-container rules but stressed safety measures: "We do want plastic," staff said, explaining the committee's direction that glass not be allowed in the permitted area. Staff clarified how 'sealed' containers are defined under the relaxation: "Sealed meant lid," and noted that a straw would mean a container is not sealed for enforcement purposes.

Members discussed the licensing mechanics for multiple sellers at a single event. Staff said separate vendors may hold distinct temporary licenses so long as the licensed sales areas are specifically identified and do not overlap; the committee asked staff to make the resolution and intersection definitions specific before the item moves to the full council.

A motion to approve the Green Haven Family Advocates application carried on a roll-call vote with all Alders present voting aye. The committee then approved Main Street Monroe's separate temporary Class B and outdoor beer-garden application in a second motion; that motion also passed on a roll call. The clerk recorded affirmative votes for the Alders listed at roll call.

The committee made a short procedural note requesting the council chamber camera be adjusted so the entire dais is visible on video, then adjourned.