(Algona)--As of July 1st, a new Iowa law will allow cities to establish designated "social districts" or entertainment zones where people can legally carry and consume alcoholic beverages, such as beer, wine, and liquor, in public spaces like streets and sidewalks during specific dates and times.
The Algona City Council last week held its first reading of an ordinance designating a social district, with a second and third reading schedule for the meeting on Monday, July 6. If the council votes to adopt it, the social district ordinance would go into effect in time for the annual Founders’ Day celebration, scheduled for July 9th through 12th.
Once the ordinance is adopted, the council must then pass a resolution to activate the social district for designated dates and times. Currently the proposed resolution activates the social district for designated days and hours during the Founders’ Day celebration, including Friday, July 10 from 4 p.m. to 12:00 a.m. (midnight) and Saturday, July 11 from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.
