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Selectmen reject request to serve alcohol at Abenaki Waterski tournament
Summary
Board denied an alcohol-beverage permit for the Abenaki Waterski Club event at Glendon Street/Fossefield after members and residents said the proposed fenced area would be on town property where children attend events and town policy restricts alcohol in those settings.
The Wolfeboro Board of Selectmen voted against allowing beer and wine service at an Abenaki Waterski Club event slated for July, concluding that the proposal conflicted with longstanding local norms about alcohol on town property.
Scott Ouellette of Magic Foods Productions told the board the caterer planned a fenced, ticketed tent with ID checks and liability coverage, saying, “No alcohol would be able to leave that area.” Jay Frucci, chair of the event, said the competition would draw international athletes and “would really enhance the event.”
Several selectmen and residents disagreed, citing a town policy against permitting alcohol where children will be present and noting that this location sits on town property rather than state waters. Chair Paul O'Brien said the town’s ordinance does not currently allow a ‘beer garden’ in that location and that creating social districts under state law would require a town vote. A motion to approve service of beer and wine was seconded and, after an even split in voices, failed for lack of a majority.
The board discussed reconsidering the town policy later, noting the state’s new 'sip and stroll' statutes and leaving open the possibility of updating the ordinance. No legal action or permit was approved at the meeting.
