Port commission discusses alcohol policy

Currently, open containers of alcohol are not allowed on port property. The only exceptions are transport to and from moored boats or those that have received a special use permit. Blue explained that the special use permit is granted by the port but the event has to have permission from the Oregon Liquor and Cannabis Commission.

While the policy is in place, Blue told commissioners it is not readily enforced. That is partly because they don’t have the staff to do so. He provided information about alcohol-related policies from the Port of Hood River, Port of Brookings Harbor, and Port of Newport. Blue also consulted with the City of Cascade Locks regarding current city ordinances about consuming alcohol in public spaces.

Commissioner Rob Peterson pointed out that the City of Hood River and the Port of Hood River allow open containers, and he hasn’t seen an issue with public intoxication.

Commissioners recognized that public intoxication might be the approach to alcohol at port properties. Blue said there are Oregon statutes regarding public intoxication. The sheriff’s office can enforce those statues. The City of Cascade Locks does not have its own police department; however, it contracts with the Hood River Sheriff’s Office for patrol services.

During the discussion, Peterson and Commissioner Albert Nance raised a concern about glass containers. Nance said if someone dropped a glass bottle and it broke, that could be a hazard for park users like children, who might be barefooted.

As for insurance costs, Blue didn’t think changing the policy to focus on public intoxication would result in increased insurance costs or risks for the port.