Commission approves controlled alcohol sales at Riley County Fair with vendor conditions

Representatives of Manhattan Brewing Company and the Riley County Fair Board asked the county to approve on-site, controlled alcohol sales at the Riley County Fair in a fenced beer-garden area between Potter Hall and the beef barn. Jake Bogalai (Manhattan Brewing Company) and Andrea De Jesus (Riley County Fair Board) described plans for a contained service area with staffed entrances, fencing, table seating and a donated tap trailer from Standard Beverage; they said proceeds or fees to the fair board would support youth prizes and fair programs.

Commission discussion centered on the hours proposed (up to 11 a.m.–11 p.m. on event nights), whether to allow hard liquor or limit sales to beer and cider, and how to prevent alcohol leaving the fenced area. Presenters said security staff would be stationed at entrances, and the proposal would follow state licensing requirements for a full catering license. Commissioners moved, seconded and approved county fair alcohol sales; one commissioner abstained during the voice vote on the record.

What to watch: staff indicated the county will update the standing resolution that previously allowed beer at rodeo events so the fair sales and any hard-liquor permissions are explicitly authorized; event operators must comply with state licensing and county conditions.