On the Waterfront Liquor Rules Debated

Rockford, Illinois - For 22 years people could walk the festival grounds with beers in their hands, but not into or out of the several bars within the boundaries of the city`s annual street party. The downtown bar and restaurant owners want that rule to change. "Instead of taking something away, we`re looking to add to On the Waterfront and work together," says Mary Olson, owner of Paragon on State in downtown Rockford. Monday night city council members talked about ammending the open container law. The proposal before the city`s code and regulation committee would allow bar patrons to take liquor into the streets, if it`s in plastic cups or bottles. But On the Waterfront officials worry that could affect 12 non-profit groups that sell beer and wine at the festival. "We believe this ordinance change could affect our revenues in terms of beer and wine sales," says Kim Casey, On the Waterfront Board Chair. "That`s 26 percent of our projected revenue." Downtown bar and restaurant owners, like Mary Olson, say they wouldn`t compete with Waterfront sales. "We`ve agreed with On the Waterfront not to undercut their drink sales," says Olson. On the Waterfront is staffed by over 3,000 volunteers, and draws hundred of thousands of people to downtown Rockford. The ammended ordinance could also affect On the Waterfront`s insurance premium, and their bottom line. "The additional charge could be as much as $15,000 or a 25 percent premium increase," says Casey. "We just want to be part of the festival. We would police it like we normally do," says Olson. Rockford`s code and regulation committee will vote on the proposed change to the city`s open-container law next week. The committee`s recommendation will be sent to the full council, which will have the final say.