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This article is a reprint from the Topsail Voice, Wednesday, August 11, 2010 To view the original article, click on the "Topsail Voice" link above.
TOPSAIL VOICE
By Connie Pletl
Published: Wednesday, August 11, 2010 9:40 AM EDT
SURF CITY – If you want to have a beer on the beach in Surf City, you can, as long as you abide by a few rules.
Seeking to clarify the ordinances pertaining to public alcohol consumption and possession, town leaders held a public hearing on the matter on Aug. 4.
Town Manager Michael Moore said the town statute regarding alcoholic beverage possession and consumption actually prohibited it in public areas, even on the beach.
In chapter 12 – Offenses and Miscellaneous Provisions — of the town code Section 12-11 states that it is illegal for people to consume alcohol in public areas in town.
“…it shall be unlawful for any person to consume or possess an open container of malt beverage or fortified wine on any street, sidewalk, or alley of the town…included but not limited to public parks, public beach and sound access, and municipal buildings and grounds,” states the chapter in part.
Moore said after he had looked over the statute and discussed it with the town council; he investigated other towns to see how they handled the matter.
He then recommended that the town revise the ordinance to allow alcoholic beverages to be consumed on the beach, except in the area around the Roland Avenue beach access.
Moore said that the revised ordinance would prohibit the consumption of alcohol and the possession of open containers within 500 feet of the Roland Avenue beach access.
“What about glass containers?” asked Mayor Zander Guy.
Moore said that glass containers would continue to be prohibited on the beach.
Councilman Mike Curly asked if the town needed to include age restrictions in its ordinance.
Moore said the age limit was covered by state law.
“You still have to be at least 21,” he said.
The ordinance does allow for exceptions for special events if prior written approval is obtained from the town manager and any needed permits are received from the appropriate alcohol law enforcement agencies.
There were no public comments during the hearing.
The town council voted 5-0 to adopt the revised ordinance.
Till next time....
Tight lines!
Johnny
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