New Kalispell law would allow alcohol at outdoor events

The Kalispell City Council tonight holds a final vote on an ordinance to allow special public events with alcohol at select city properties.

It would offer permits for events at Depot Park, the enclosed hockey rink area at Woodland Park and Lakers Fields.

It also opens the grounds at Hockaday Museum of Art, Conrad Mansion and Museum at Central School for such events — locations where alcohol is allowed indoors already.

Not-for-profit groups can apply for permits to hold events in city streets and right of way, but only in a commercial district.

The ordinance passed a first reading 7-1 with council member Bob Hafferman opposed.

In other business tonight, the council will:

• Take a final vote on an ordinance to update Kalispell’s flood plain maps.

• Vote on awarding a $290,881 contract for a South Woodland Drive water project to NCC Neumann. The project upgrades 1,820 feet of water line and installs four new hydrants from South Woodland Avenue to North Quincy Loop. It is anticipated to cost $404,350.

• Consider annexation and residential zoning requests from Marilynn Richter for a .77-acre property at 205 Leisure Drive. 

• Consider annexation and business zoning requests and a conditional-use permit request from Orchard Village for a half-acre property at 57 Appleway Drive. The permit would allow construction of a four-plex. That would be incorporated into the neighboring Orchard Village Apartment complex.

Tonight’s meeting starts at 7 p.m. in Kalispell City Hall, 201 First Ave. E. It is open to the public.

Reporter Tom Lotshaw may be reached at 758-4483 or by email at tlotshaw@dailyinterlake.com.