By BOB SHRALUKA
WZBD.com
Decatur City Council and the city administration are working toward establishing a DORA for the community, but numerous. essential decisions still need to be made.
In a lengthy discussion at council’s Tuesday night meeting, it became obvious that many of those steps are still ahead before a DORA (Designated Outside Refreshment Area) can be established.
A DORA allows individuals who are at least 21 years old to purchase alcoholic beverages from approved vendors and retail establishments and carry them around outside to be consumed within the DORA boundaries.
A new statue allowing DORAs was passed by Indiana Legislature and went into effect last July.
Mayor Dan Rickord said numerous Indiana communities have approved a DORA in various forms; there is no standard setup.
City Attorney Anne Razo, asked by council late last year to chart some of the steps that are needed, gave a wide-ranging report at the meeting.
One key step favored by everyone was taking time to survey local bars and restaurants, as well as citizens, about their feelings on establishing a DORA.
Councilwoman Abby Wilder volunteered to join a committee with Razo and Community Coordinator Jamie Gephart. Decatur Main Street President Max Miller will be asked to help as will some others.
They will be seeking opinions.
“I would like to hear from more bar owners … and more citizens,” Councilman Matt Dyer said.
Razo pointed out some of the things which need to be established in order to craft an ordinance to establish a DORA.
Among them: the boundaries of the DORA; how many of them (Fort Wayne has three, the mayor said); what would be the hours; setting up signage; should a special cup be used by bars, restaurants and patrons for those wanting to move about within the DORA.
“We can craft it as we want it,” Razo said.
“What is our goal in having this, what benefits will there be for our community?” Councilman Scott Murray asked.
“This is new to us, so there are a lot of decisions to be made,” Dyer added.
Razo pointed out at a previous meeting that the establishment of a DORA can be somewhat controversial” as some people consider it to be promoting drinking alcoholic beverages and also encouraging people to consume too much.
She said at that time that she considers a DORA a way to encourage people to come downtown, and also as a way to exercise more control over drinking at outdoor events.
Mayor Rickord noted earlier that a public meeting would be held before any possible passage of an ordinance establishing a DORA.
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