WATERTOWN, S.D.(KXLG)- Unless the Watertown City Council decides against approving the license, alcohol should be available to purchase at Watertown Shamrocks games. The Watertown Board of Adjustment considered a conditional use request on July 18, 2024, to sell alcoholic beverages at the Prairie Lakes Ice Arena. The request, submitted by the Watertown Parks, Recreation & Forestry Department, seeks approval for a bar or tavern within the arena’s existing concession stand.

The primary purpose of the request is to allow for on-site beer sales during junior hockey games, specifically those involving the Watertown Shamrocks. However, the discussion included the possibility of expanding sales to other events held at the arena, such as adult hockey tournaments.

While the arena is located in a C-3 Highway Commercial District, which typically allows for bars and taverns, the specific request for on-site consumption necessitates a conditional use permit. This is because the sale of alcohol for consumption on the premises differs from off-site sales, such as those at a gas station.

The Board Chair clarified that the initial request focuses on sales during Shamrock’s games. Still, the permit would allow the Parks and Recreation Board to determine how and when alcohol sales would be regulated at the arena. This could include restrictions on specific events or age groups.

A question was raised about the process for recurring events with alcohol sales, such as the Sippin’ Safari at the Watertown Zoo. Community Development Manager Brandi Hanten clarified that these events typically require council approval on a consent agenda item, unlike the conditional use process required for a permanent change.

The Board of Adjustment voted to approve the conditional use permit, allowing the Parks and Recreation Department to apply for the necessary malt beverage license. The license will be presented to the City Council for final approval.