Correction: This article should have made clear that the added beer concession would not replace a beer garden that operates on a lot owned by Central Bank next to Arris' Pizza. The text below has been corrected to remove any implication otherwise.
The Jefferson City Council will act on a resolution Monday to decide whether to allow a beer garden in association with Salute to America on a city parking lot.
The resolution to be voted on Monday seeks permissive use of the parking lot behind Saffees, located off Monroe Street on Commercial Way. The lot would be used as a beer garden during the annual Salute to America celebration July 3 and July 4, with the organization partnering with Prison Brews for the beer concession.
City Administrator Nathan Nickolaus said drinking alcohol is not permitted on city property without a temporary outdoor consumption permit, which is why this resolution is a special case.
Second Ward Councilman Shawn Schulte said he was hesitant to approve the request as it could set a precedent to allow for other similar requests.
"To me it's just going to be a growing problem in years to come," Schulte said.
Council members discussed the issue at the Brown Bagel meeting Thursday, but more debate is anticipated Monday.
"I hope we can bottle (the debate) and have it Monday night," said 3rd Ward Councilman Bob Scrivner.
In other business, Nickolaus is expected to give the first monthly update on the city's financials. Nickolaus was asked by the Finance Committee to begin the practice of a monthly financial report at council meetings. He said the report will be brief and is meant to keep the public informed.