Expanded BYOB rules will be a no-go in Kingston

Council rejected recommendations by staff to look further into the matter.

Kingston City Council doesn't appear to be in any hurry to allow people to bring their own alcoholic beverages at public events.

The province announced in March that they are expanding tailgating permits beyond sporting venues such as farmer's markets and festivals starting April 30. The caveat is that municipalities are required to establish a bylaw authorizing the use of alcohol in public, if one is not already in place.

Council unanimously voted against a staff report Tuesday night that recommended City staff to review the implications of the Province's plan.

Portsmouth District Cllr Don Amos says what the provincial government is doing is creating a slippery slope.

Another concern raised by Council is whether there are enough resources to enforce such legislation.

Amos says the City's by-law enforcement is not prepared to deal with any issues that might arise.

Amos says what the City has in place is already working and there is no need to change what they are doing.

The Province introduced the changes as a way to get more people out to events, driving local tourism and economy.

Story by Ken Hashizume

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