Clackamas County Implements Alcohol Ordinance at Barton, Carver Parks

Signs are being prepared and staff is beginning training for regulation of alcohol in two county parks beginning Friday morning.

Photo: Clackamas County Sheriff's Office

(OREGON CITY, Ore. ) - Clackamas County Commissioners have approved an ordinance that gives the County Administrator authority to regulate possession of alcoholic beverages at county parks when deemed necessary to protect public health or safety.

"We want to work through a thoughtful review process and include ample citizen input before we make a long-term decision," said Commissioner Bill Kennemer, who voiced support for a task force to review the topic of regulating alcohol in the parks. "We'd like to also address other issues of concern - water quality, parking and maintaining our quality of life here."

"This action is an interim step while the Commissioners take a comprehensive look at the issue," said Commission Vice Chair Lynn Peterson. "We meet with our two parks advisory committees next Tuesday and will be in contact with other partners to develop realistic strategies to solve the problem."

Commission Chair Martha Schrader, who was out of state at the time of the special business meeting, is in agreement with her fellow commissioners. "This will be a team effort between our Sheriff's Office and our parks personnel, along with review by our citizens who advise us on parks, tourism and economic development. We will reach a successful resolution."

Also testifying at the public hearing and offering assistance in support of the Commissioners' decision were Oregon Parks and Recreation Department, county parks, citizen volunteers and environmental non-profit organizations.

Based upon the ordinance approved by the Board, County Administrator Jonathan Mantay announced that possession of alcoholic beverages will be prohibited in Barton and Carver County parks effective 12:01 AM Friday. The interim restriction will remain in place until Wednesday, Sept. 5th.

This restriction does not affect individuals or groups currently holding reservations for a campsite or picnic area.

The County Parks Department will be contacting those groups holding reservations to clearly communicate the specific of the restrictions.

Written notices of this restriction at the two parks will be posted on site.