By COLE REIF
Great Bend Post
The Great Bend City Council tabled a decision on expanding the Common Consumption Area (CCA) in downtown, possibly looking for more regulation when the area is allowed to be used.
In 2021, Great Bend Alive, with Great Bend Economic Development, was granted a consumption area for Forest Avenue, between Main and Williams. The designation allows alcohol to be consumed outside at allotted times, specifically the Final Fridays on Forest outdoor celebrations.
Economic Development Director Sara Arnberger asked the council to expand the CCA to allow more streets, parking lots and alleyways to be included in the outdoor events.
"When communicating our CCA with the state, they asked if we would ever desire to have it open in other areas," said Arnberger. "They turned us on to Pittsburg, Kansas. In Pittsburg, they have blanketed their entire downtown as a CCA. We're not asking to do that, but the reason they did that is because it was an easier solution to being able to activate different areas of their downtown without having to seek the state's approval each time and each step."
The proposed CCA expansion includes portions of Lakin Avenue and 12th Street, between Main and Williams, barricading them from vehicle use. Spot areas would include the parking lot to the north of Charlie’s Place and the outdoor gathering place constructed on the southwest corner of Forest and Williams.
Council member Cory Urban said he would like to see more council representation on the committee that approves the consumption area times.
"We wouldn't plan to close all of these at the same time," replied Arnberger.
"You wouldn't plan but you technically could," responded Urban.
"Correct," Arnberger said. "We could technically apply for that."
"I would personally like to see the mayor and at least one council person be added to that committee," added Urban. "That would put a council voice on that committee as well."
The council voted 6-1 to table the discussion for the meeting on Aug. 19, and be presented an option to include the mayor and council president on the CCA committee, along with the city administrator and city clerk.