DeKALB – Discussions continue regarding allowing alcohol at events, such as DeKalb Municipal Band concerts, on Park District grounds, according to city officials.
DeKalb City Attorney Dean Frieders said a set timeline has yet to be determined regarding an approval process for allowing alcohol at those types of events, but he said conversations and meetings on the matter are ongoing. He said the park district has been responsive with public safety concerns with the authorization process, and city staff has been supportive in helping the park district expand the usefulness of its properties.
Amy Doll, executive director for the DeKalb Park District, said the park district hasn't heard from the city regarding permits that would allow patrons to bring their own alcohol during concerts on park district property. She said it wouldn't be financially feasible for the park district to have its own bar for every concert, as it did as a trial run for the band's last concert of the season last year, citing material, server licensing and labor cost concerns.
"It just doesn't make sense to have a bar out there," Doll said.
The DeKalb Park District board unanimously passed an ordinance amendment on April 19 to allow special permits for alcohol sales on Park District grounds. Alcohol consumption for those 21 and older at eligible park shelters will be allowed at private events, as well as the sale or distribution of alcohol for public events, as long as the person, entity or organization providing or selling the alcohol obtains a permit by the park district executive director at least 14 days before the event.
At this point, Frieders said, it's a matter of finalizing a couple more terms within the permitting process for concerts and getting it in front of city officials.
"I anticipate that it will come forward to the council for city action in the near future," Frieders said.