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Planning and Building Department, Economic Development Unit, recommending the Board receive a presentation by staff and provide conceptual approval to amend Title 5 of County Code - Business Taxes, Licenses and Regulations to add a new chapter 5.60 to allow for establishment of Entertainment Zones within unincorporated El Dorado County.
FUNDING: N/A
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DISCUSSION / BACKGROUND
Senate Bill 969, effective January 1, 2025, authorizes California cities and counties to create designated "entertainment zones" where individuals, aged 21 and over, may legally possess and consume open containers of alcoholic beverages within a prescribed geographic boundary and purchased from licensed participating businesses. The goal of this legislation is to stimulate local economies, enhance cultural and social activities, and promote downtown vibrancy through well-regulated, inclusive public spaces. County Ordinances adopted under this legislation must consider the following for each approved Entertainment Zone:
· Geographic Boundaries
· Days and Hours of Operation
· Allowable Open Alcoholic Beverage Containers
· Alcohol Type
· Signage
· Reporting Requirements
The request for the Board to consider an Entertainment Zone Ordinance comes in response to the Economic Development Division of the Planning and Building Department receiving and evaluating a request for the potential formation of an Entertainment Zone in El Dorado Hills Town Center to enhance the visitor experience. Although the El Dorado Hills Town Center has special events that serve alcohol, current state Alcohol Beverage Control regulations have created challenges. As an example, during the center's outdoor concert series, patrons can purchase alcohol from one of the center's restaurants, but cannot take it "off-site" from the restaurant's premises. This does not give flexibility to allow patrons to sit by the concert stage to drink alcoholic beverages purchased at the restaurants. The only option is to b...
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