The Municipality of Chatham-Kent says it is not moving forward with bring-your-own alcohol permits for outdoor public events following consultations with local organizers and community partners.
An upcoming information report to council outlines feedback gathered from event organizers, municipal departments, emergency services, public health officials and municipalities across Ontario regarding the province’s new bring-your-own alcohol regulations.
According to the municipality, most local event organizers surveyed said they would not support or use bring-your-own alcohol permits. Concerns raised included public safety, liability, increased insurance and security costs, and the potential loss of fundraising revenue generated through licensed bar sales.
“Chatham-Kent is committed to supporting safe and successful community events,” Kelly Bauchus, supervisor of special events for Chatham-Kent, said in a statement. “Based on the feedback received through our consultations, Administration is not moving forward with Bring-Your-Own alcohol permits at this time.”
The municipality said alcohol service at events will continue to operate under Chatham-Kent’s existing Municipal Alcohol Policy and special event permitting process.
