TITLE
Recommendation to adopt resolution authorizing a temporary waiver for the restriction of alcohol at El Dorado Regional Park, Area III, for an Oktoberfest event scheduled for October 22, 2010 through
October 31, 2010. (District 5)
DISCUSSION
In this time of financial challenges, the Department of Parks, Recreation and Marine (PRM) continues to look for new revenue opportunities to support basic recreation services for Long Beach residents. Therefore, PRM is in the process of developing a one-year alcohol pilot program intended to test the festival and event business, including weddings, family reunions, corporate picnics, and large festival events, by allowing alcohol under certain strict conditions.
During the development of the pilot program, PRM received a proposal from O Entertainment, Inc. (Operator), a Long Beach-based company, to promote and produce a family-oriented Oktoberfest event in El Dorado East Regional Park, Area III, from October 22, 2010 through October 31, 2010. The event will be a Munich-style German festival with a giant dance floor, live entertainment, covered dining tents, 25 midway and European-style amusement rides, games, a German store, and arts and crafts. Festival attendees will pay a one-time admission fee that allows unlimited rides and entertainment. The festival will also have an enclosed beer garden.
This family festival is in line with PRM's proposed alcohol pilot program. The pilot program will require changes to the Long Beach Municipal Code and will be brought to the City Council for approval within the next 90-120 days. However, to allow Operator adequate time to plan, secure entertainers, and sign supplier agreements, this item is being brought to the City Council ahead of the pilot program.
The Municipal Code currently allows the use of alcohol only in certain facilities, such as Blair Field, Rancho Los Cerritos, Rancho Los Alamitos, and golf courses. The Municipal Code prohibits the use of alcohol in parks, wit...
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