Police chief recommends Smithville follow temporary state rule extending alcohol sales hours

The Police Chief presented a staff memo about a temporary state statute that, for June 11–July 19, allows extended on-premise alcohol sales of up to 23 hours a day. The chief told the board municipalities are automatically opted in to the state statute unless the municipality takes formal action to opt out and recommended Option 1: "to take no action, follow the state statute as it's written."

Board members asked whether following the statute would create additional burdens for the police department; the chief said the city does not anticipate a large enforcement burden and noted no large events are currently planned that would mirror other nearby cities' activity. During the discussion the chief also said the statute will automatically sunset on July 20.

A Department of Liquor Control representative, who staff said was present as a subject-matter expert, clarified scope: "The key to the extended hours, it applies only to what are typically classified as bars or restaurants. It's sale of intoxicating liquor on the premises only. It's not for packaged liquor or for temporary licenses," the representative said. Board members asked specifically about Lakefest and beer tents; the representative stated temporary picnic licenses or temporary caterer's permits for special events are not retail liquor-by-the-drink sales and therefore do not receive the extended hours under the statute.

After the exchange, aldermen indicated a consensus to follow the state statute for the June 11–July 19 period rather than pursue a local opt-out. Staff did not record a formal roll-call vote at the work session.