The city commission in Deadwood, South Dakota recently voted against an open-container ordinance that would allow people to carry drinks outdoors in the historic gambling town’s downtown area year-round, not just during special events. The proposal was recommended by Lacey Kirwan, owner of Gunslingers Saloon, who said a less stringent alcohol ordinance would enhance tourism. “Families would think it was so cool to be able to wander around with a beer while they shop and game and enjoy Deadwood,” she said.
Despite the setback, Kirwan said she will continue to encourage the commission to reconsider the ordinance. Deadwood Chamber Executive Director Lee Harstad noted a survey taken last fall among chamber members indicated 58 percent supported allowing open containers from Memorial Day through Labor Day. “There’s certainly a divide in the community as to expanding open container, but I don’t think this was the last push for an extended period of open container in Deadwood,” he said.
However, opponents said the proposal would increase public drunkenness and put pressure on police. Chief Kelly Fuller said, “You start having open container all the time and it opens up a plethora of issues for us.”
