WDT: Taps Open...When Appropriate and Done Legally

This issue of alcohol on public property is really quite simple. The first question....Is it appropriate to sell booze at the proposed event ? If so, how can it be done legally as defined by New York's Alcohol Beverage Control law ?
The options are that a "not for profit" can receive a one day permit for their event, but the entity receiving the proceeds must be clearing identified on the application. The other way is for the organizer of the event to contract with an already licensed vendor who can get a catering permit from the SLA.
None of this is onerous....None of this picks on concert goers or promoters. It's just the law. Previous arrangements were outside the law. That's not me saying it...That's the former head of the SLA who advised the City on a new policy.
Properly issued licenses to approved entities provide accountability. Whether its selling securities, doing brain surgery, practicing law, doing car inspections, running a day care, selling food....or any of a number of things, licenses are issued and people engage in these enterprises.
This week I sent my $1882 to Albany to renew my license at Fort Pearl. In doing so, I accept a set of rules and am subject to accountability. While selling beer may seem a harmless enterprise, it is regulated for reasons.
This new written policy for public property allows for the sale of the devil's brew, on the limited occasions where it is appropriate. No one is denied the opportunity to request sale of alcohol at their event. It just has to be done legally.
Watertown Daily Times City to set policies for alcohol sales at fairgrounds