The City Council finds that:
(A) Alcohol is an addictive drug which, if used irresponsibly, could have adverse effects on those who use it as well as those who are affected by the actions of an irresponsible user;
(B) Prohibiting underage consumption acts to protect underage persons, as well as the general public, from injuries related to alcohol consumption, such as alcohol overdose or alcohol-related traffic accidents;
(C) Events and gatherings held on private or public property where alcohol is possessed or consumed by persons under the age of 21 may be harmful to those persons and constitute a potential threat to public health;
(D) Events and gatherings involving underage possession and consumption of alcohol frequently occur outside the presence of parents or legal guardians. There are times, however, when a parent, guardian, or other responsible person is present thereby condoning the activity and, at times, provides the alcohol to persons under the age of 21;
(E) Even though giving or furnishing alcohol to a person under the age of 21 is a crime, it is difficult to prove, and an ordinance is necessary as another tool to help further combat underage possession and consumption of alcohol; and
(F) Holding a person criminally responsible for hosting an event or gathering where underage possession or consumption of alcohol occurs will serve as a deterrent.
(Ord. 144, passed - -2013)