The City Council finds that:
(A) Alcohol is an addictive drug which, if used irresponsibly, could have drastic effects on those who use it as well as those who are affected by the actions of an irresponsible user.
(B) Consumption of alcohol by persons under the age of 21 is harmful to those persons and constitutes a potential threat to public safety from injuries related to alcohol consumption, such as alcohol overdose or alcohol-related traffic collisions.
(C) As a result, events and gatherings held on private or public property where alcohol is possessed or consumed by persons under the age of 21 should be prevented as much as possible.
(D) Events or gatherings involving underage possession and consumption often occur outside the presence of parents or other responsible adults. However, there are times when a parent or other adult is present and condones the activity, and, in some circumstances, provides the alcohol.
(E) Even though giving or furnishing alcohol to an underage person is a crime, it is difficult to prove, and an ordinance is necessary to help further combat underage consumption.
(F) A deterrent effect will be created by holding a person criminally responsible for hosting an event or gathering where underage possession or consumption occurs.
(Ord. 238, passed 7-20-09)