Residents who shop at the farmer’s market in Wakamow Valley this year will be able to buy craft alcohol from vendors along with their typical purchases.
During its April 24 regular meeting, city council unanimously voted to approve the organization’s request to sell alcohol for offsite consumption in Kiwanis River Park at 301 River Drive on Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. from May 27 to Sept. 9.
Market organizers estimate that 500 to 700 people will attend each Saturday to enjoy a specially crafted beer that vendors will brew. They also say that money from the event will be used to maintain the park and for upcoming projects.
Municipal approval is required for this request because the farmer’s market — now in its third year — must obtain the proper permits from the Saskatchewan Liquor and Gaming Authority (SLGA), a council report explained.
Meanwhile, the city’s alcohol use events policy does not specifically mention alcohol sales permits for offsite consumption, so council approval is required.
With the popularity of craft brewing vendors on the rise, city administration will review the City of Moose Jaw’s alcohol use events policy this year to ensure policies and procedures are developed for similar requests in the future, the report said.
The department of parks and recreation recommended that council approve the request so long as the farmers’ market follows several conditions.
Some conditions include the organization complying with all rules under the provincial Alcohol and Gaming Regulation Act, securing and displaying all necessary SLGA licences and approvals, maintaining $2 million in public liability insurance, and being responsible for all event costs, including provisions for washrooms.
The next regular council meeting is Monday, May 8.
