No vote yet on outdoor drinking hours extension in New Philadelphia
NEW PHILADELPHIA – An anticipated vote on expanding hours for outdoor drinking in downtown New Philadelphia did not happen Monday night because too many Council members were absent.
It will instead be up for a vote April 28th.
Council is considering allowing outdoor drinking downtown seven days a week, in the evenings Monday through Thursday and in the afternoons and evening Friday through Sunday. Right now, it’s only allowed during special events. Patrons must have designated cups and stay inside the Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area, or DORA, that covers a few blocks downtown.
Proponents say it helps downtown businesses and works well in other municipalities. Opponents say it sets a bad example for kids, tempts those with addictions and would damage a family-friendly reputation.
The Empower Tusc Coalition is asking Council to implement 12 safeguards to protect children, including alcohol server training and underage compliance checks.
https://empowertusc.com/safeguards-to-protect-youth-and-preserve-community-norms/
Council president Don Kemp invited citizens to attend the April 28th meeting to share their opinions prior to Council’s vote.