New policy might allow alcohol in Peterswood Park
Consumption of alcohol could be allowed under limited circumstances at Peterswood Park if Peters Township Council approves revisions to the current ordinance.
During a discussion at their Dec. 12 meeting, a narrow majority of council members expressed interest in voting for a new policy that would lift a longtime ban.
Previously, council had asked solicitor John Smith to review the existing policy, and he suggested input from the township parks and recreation board.
“Essentially, what they have suggested is that they believe that alcohol consumption would make sense if it was limited to certain areas in the park and it was limited to certain activities in the park,” township manager Paul Lauer told council, referencing events in picnic pavilions and at the park’s new amphitheater.
Further recommendations are “that it be done so with a permit, that there be a fee associated with that permit, that the police be made aware that permit is out there and that it be displayed visibly,” Lauer said.
Based on the points of view presented by council members, four seem to support a change.
“From my perspective, I’m in favor of allowing this to occur,” council member Monica Merrell said. “I think that rental of pavilions is probably less than it would be if we would allow beer and wine.”
Frank Arcuri was one of three council members with a differing opinion.
“I think there was a reason why it’s never been like that,” he said about the proposal. “I don’t think that we should be condoning the use of alcohol, and I think it opens up potential liability issues that I don’t believe we’re able to adequately address.”
Smith said the township could attempt to do so.
“We would check with our insurance carrier to see if there is appropriate coverage in place,” he said. “This isn’t like a dram shop issue, where we’re serving anybody. There’s always potential for issues associated with alcohol consumption in public places, but it can be done legally.”
Township staff members will work on a revised ordinance.
“We will draft something and bring it back to council,” Lauer said.