Dunsmuir council directs staff to draft entertainment‑zone ordinance, approves $5,000 to start

The Dunsmuir City Council voted to direct staff to draft an ordinance establishing a downtown entertainment zone in which patrons of participating ABC‑licensed businesses could carry and consume alcohol inside a defined boundary using a wristband-and-container system. The motion authorizes the city attorney to prepare ordinance language consistent with a model from the City of Reading, requires law‑enforcement consultation and Planning Commission review, and asks staff to identify funding to start implementation. "I move that we direct staff to proceed with the development of an entertain zone ordinance for the city Of Dunsmere downtown core...and identify an appropriate funding source for year 1 implementation estimated for $5,000 to get it started," the mover said during the meeting.

Why it matters: Council members said the zone is intended to help downtown businesses capture event traffic, allow customers to shop while carrying beverages purchased at participating businesses, and provide a controlled, regulated approach to outdoor alcohol consumption during events such as Railroad Days. Staff told council that the state ABC must be notified and that local insurance coverage (through SCORE/CJPRMA) may require an addendum so the city is not exposed to liability.

Council discussion and next steps: The council heard a staff estimate that initial drafting and environmental review could cost roughly $4,600 and that additional infrastructure (signage, cups, wristbands) would be budgeted later. Several council members emphasized the need for stakeholder outreach; staff was directed to consult with the Siskiyou County Sheriff’s Office and to place a draft ordinance before the Planning Commission before a council reading. The council approved a friendly amendment to return drafting work at the June 2 regular meeting rather than the next immediate meeting, and the motion carried on a roll‑call vote with all members voting in favor. Staff will return with a proposed ordinance, CEQA determination and a budget appropriation at a future meeting.