It’s still undetermined whether the City of Kelowna will allow for the consumption of alcohol at certain parks this summer.
In 2023, the City green-lit a pilot program that allowed people to drink alcohol at three major parks – Waterfront, Kinsmen and Boyce-Gyro.
There were several regulations in place, as those enjoying an adult beverage in these parks were told to avoid pathways, parking lots, playgrounds and sports courts.
Glass alcohol containers were also strictly prohibited.
While no major issues were reported during the pilot project, city staff have yet to present a report on the results to council.
However, that will change next month, as City spokesperson Tom Wilson told KelownaNow that staff will present a report to council in early May.
“It will include a recap of last year’s pilot project and describe plans for the summer,” he explained in an emailed statement.
If Kelowna follows Penticton’s lead, plans for summer 2024 will likely include an expanded pilot program or even the adoption of a permanent bylaw.
The City of Penticton first introduced a pilot to allow for the consumption of alcohol on select beaches in 2020, which continued in 2021 and 2022.
In early 2023, Penticton council voted unanimously to make it a permanent bylaw.
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