Woodstock passes ordinance allowing alcohol to-go

The Woodstock city council passed an ordinance creating an Entertainment District that includes the area surrounding Main Street in Downtown Woodstock. Several beer-friendly businesses are located in the district including Truck & Tap, Freight Kitchen & Tap, Century House Tavern, Salt, and others. The ordinance took effect Tuesday, March 15, 2016.

Businesses that have a current consumption on premise license and that derive more than 50% of their sales from food can now allow customers to purchase drinks in 16 oz. plastic “to-go” cups. Businesses are not allowed to set up alcohol sales outside of their business (no beer carts) or allow customers to take beverages off the premises after 12:00 Midnight, current law allows businesses to serve alcohol until 2:00 AM. The to-go beverages are allowed anywhere within the Entertainment District with the exception of the Park at City Center, schools, churches, daycares, and anywhere that private property owners or tenants don’t allow it.

The ordinance wasn’t without its haters opponents, online petitions and discussions popped up before the vote citing concerns about excessive litter and drunkenness.

This is indeed a glorious day for Woodstock, and therefore, the entire world.