Woodstock council just says no to BYOB

Woodstock chooses to opt out of provincial ‘bring your own beer’ event permits. CTV’s Bryan Bicknell explains why.

The city of Woodstock, Ont. is just saying no to ‘bring your own’ (BYO) alcohol for local events. City council has voted to opt out of provincial BYO legislation that would allow festival goers to pack their own favourite adult bevies when they attend some community and cultural celebrations.

Speaking at Thursday’s meeting of city council, Mayor Jerry Acchione indicated he would be willing to keep the door open for such a proposal in the future but said now is not the right time.

“Definitely, I think there’s pros and cons both ways, depending on enjoyment. But right now, I think it’s a little too early as well,” said Acchione.

Under the amended BYO framework, adults would be allowed to bring and consume their own alcoholic beverages at select outdoor events.

Approval for such events would have to be granted by the Alcohol and Gaming Commission, and only with a confirmation letter from the municipality.

“It would eliminate non-profit organizations, particularly the Lions Club. They do an excellent job at our Cowapalooza in providing beer tent regulated by smart servers. This is probably one of their big fundraisers,” explained Coun. Connie Lauder.

“It has the potential to leave us on the hook from a health and safety perspective, insurance perspective,” added Coun. Bernia Martin.

Council’s decision comes as the busy spring-summer festival season begins to ramp up- beginning with Victoria Day celebrations later this month and ending with the Woodstock Fair toward the end of summer.

In between all that is the Woodstock Summer Streetfest every July, run by the Downtown BIA.

BIA Interim Chair Fadel Zabian says he’d rather people bring money to spend than booze to drink.

“So, from the perspective of the BIA corridor downtown, I’d rather see people buy stuff from our members downtown rather than bring stuff in. I mean, that’s the perspective of the BIA. I’m sure there will be other ones as well, but it is good for such events as this,” said Zabian.

Council’s vote to opt out of the provincial BYO legislation was unanimous.