By COLE REIF
Great Bend Post
After tabling a decision earlier this month on expanding the Common Consumption Area (CCA) in downtown Great Bend, the Great Bend City Council voted 6-1 Monday night to approve the ordinance that will allow alcohol on public streets, sidewalks and alleyways for select events.
In 2021, Great Bend Economic Development was granted a consumption area on Forest Avenue, between Main and Williams. The approved CCA expansion will include portions of Lakin Avenue, 12th Street, the parking lot north of Charlie’s Place and the new outdoor gathering place on the southwest corner of Forest and Williams.
Before the city council voted in favor of the expansion, citizen Dee Ann Grummon voiced concern over expanding another alcohol-included event.
"Aren't we giving out the message that you can't have fun without alcohol?" asked Grummon. "That seems to be what we're teaching our kids. Then we wonder why they abuse it because it's an adult beverage. Folks are not walking home from these events, so safety on the streets is another concern."
The ordinance was originally tabled to revise the wording to include one councilmember and mayor to the committee that approves the consumption area times.
The designation allows alcohol to be consumed outside at allotted times, specifically the Final Fridays on Forest outdoor celebrations.