Commission reviews fall and winter special events, clarifies ACE district won't replace event permits

Staff walked the commission through several special-event permit requests: Make It Magical (Dec. 11; no alcohol), Lake Wales Live (serves alcohol), Spooktacular (Oct. 30; street closures), Wicked Wine Walk (alcohol served), Bark on Park (Sept. 18; Park Avenue closure, alcohol), a revised Christmas parade route (Dec. 12; new route and start time), and the Light and Local Market (vendors moved into the marketplace so Park Avenue need not close). Staff noted the Orange Blossom events in December would require road closures and alcohol where specified.

Commissioners asked how the ACE District (the downtown alcohol-consumption entertainment district) interfaces with special events. Staff explained the ACE District covers everyday activities but does not replace the special-event permit process: "special events still have to go through the special event permit process." Applicants must draw alcohol boundaries on maps, and most events requiring alcohol must hire police as specified in the ordinance. Commissioner Gillespie raised concerns about downtown merchant access when streets close; staff said Main Street representatives were satisfied with the Light and Local Market changes.