Last April (2018) the city council decided to deny a beer and wine license to West Mall 7. All eight councilors voted against it, which I felt was one of the most ignorant moments in council history, and proved to me that the council (and planning commission) only approves things for the rich, powerful and well-connected in Sioux Falls.
Fast forward to the State Theatre wanting a license and some on the council still defend their vote saying there wasn’t a sufficient security plan. WTF?
Frager had planned to sell alcoholic beverages at a different space than the regular concession area and require folks to present identification to prove they’re of age. They’d also have to wear a wristband so staff could tell if someone holding a beer or wine had their IDs checked.
You know, the same security plan ALL city owned entertainment venues have right now. As I said at the time of the vote, what is stopping me from handing a drink to a minor at the EC, the Pavilion or the Levitt after I legally buy it? At least councilor Starr has realized it was a stupid vote (that and the fact that I chide him about it weekly.) I also find it ironic that the same members of the RS5 (Neitzert and Erickson) defend their ignorant votes on the WM7 issue that same as they defend the votes on the DT Parking Ramp. True Trumpists, when caught in a F’up, double-down on the F’up.
Now that the city council has kept minors safe from the dangers of Coors Light, let’s go throw some axes while throwing back some beers! No safety issues there!