GENESEO – A new proposal for Main Street’s alcohol policy could restrict alcohol vendors’ hours and types of containers in which alcohol can be served on the sidewalk.
At Monday’s Village Board meeting, the proposal was introduced to the board, but clarity issues in the terms arose, so the language is being looked over and possibly updated to be as specific as possible.
“The proposal would impose additional restrictions to the existing sidewalk permit,” said Trustee Ben Gajewski. “But there are some clarity issues in the code. We need to make sure that the language is explicit and well defined.”
The proposal would limit the hours that vendors could serve alcohol, a restriction which is intended to give any outdoor tables more of a ‘restaurant dinner hour feel’ by serving in the early evening rather than a ‘tavern or bar feel’ by serving late at night.
There would also be no serving alcohol of in their original containers, like cans or bottles. All alcohol would have to be served in glasses or mugs, which is intended in part to prevent patrons from bringing their own alcohol.
The proposal also says that consistent violations of this policy can lead to revocation of liquor licenses, or denying renewals of a liquor license in the future.
The policy would not affect enclosed porch areas that are separate from the sidewalk.
The policy is being reviewed and reworked before being considered by the Village Board.
PHOTO CAPTION: (Photo/Conrad Baker)