Long Beach approves ordinance to let boardwalk restaurants sell alcohol
Long Beach officials approved a new ordinance allowing boardwalk restaurants to serve alcohol following a packed meeting where residents voiced mixed opinions on economic benefits and public safety concerns.
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An ordinance addressing alcohol service and bar sizes was approved Tuesday night following a packed meeting at Long Beach City Hall, where residents voiced both support and concern over the proposed changes.
Lawmakers heard public comments on two alcohol-related amendments that sparked significant discussion. One measure will reverse an existing policy that had prohibited restaurants along the boardwalk from serving alcohol. Supporters argued the change could boost local businesses and increase revenue, especially during the busy summer season.
“I think allowing alcohol on the boardwalk would be great for community revenue and businesses,” said Long Beach resident Joe Gilmen. “More people are going to be out on the boardwalk later in the summer, and that money will go back into the town.”
However, not everyone was in favor. Some residents raised safety concerns, particularly about beach access after drinking. One speaker noted that even if alcohol isn’t allowed directly on the boardwalk or beach, people may still head onto the sand after consuming drinks nearby.
“People are going onto the beach, even after they have a drink,” the resident said. “After six o’clock, we don’t have lifeguards anymore, so that raises concerns.”
The second amendment approved by lawmakers lets the length of bars be longer than 10 feet.
Despite the changes, the ordinance maintains strict rules prohibiting drinking on the boardwalk outside of licensed establishments, as well as banning alcohol consumption on the beach.
