VIDEO: Booze on beaches, yes or no

| March 29, 2023 in Kelowna

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Penticton has embraced it, Vernon has rejected it and soon members of Kelowna's city council will have to decide.

Mayor Tom Dyas believes it's time for Kelowna to give people the opportunity to enjoy some alcohol at the beach.

Staff at the city were directed to come back with a report on the issue after Dyas introduced the motion last month. 

After a successful pilot project, Penticton City Council voted earlier this month to allow alcohol at select beaches and parks permanently. 

The vote came after a lengthy trial period that began in 2020.

Now Summerland has embarked on a similar pilot project of its own. 

Kelowna city councillor Mohini Singh told KelownaNow she is torn on the issue, but believes she may be ready to give it a try.

"I think a pilot project is the way to go," she said. 

Councillor Loyal Wooldridge appears to be on board as well. 

"I am supportive in principle," said Wooldridge.

But only at a few designated beaches so they can be "appropriately managed to ensure public safety."

When KelownaNow asked people in City Park about the idea, the responses ranged from no to yes, with a lot of people supportive, but only if it's managed properly.

"I think it is probably a good idea as long as it is contained," said one.

"If it's controlled," said another.

The staff report is expected to be in the hands of Kelowna's city councillors before summertime. 

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