The Evansville City Council has approved changes to the original Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area (DORA.)
These areas allow adults 21 and older to consume alcoholic beverages outside, in certain areas of downtown.
Adam Trinkel with Downtown Evansville on Monday came before the city council to ask that the DORA boundaries be modified.
Council had approved the DORA ordinance in February, clearing the way for adoption — following approval of the Alcohol and Tobacco Commission.
Trinkel said churches and schools within 200 feet of the DORA need to file a letter of consent, but one place of worship declined.
“The previous boundaries, there was a church included that, due to their work in the recovery space, preferred not to be included in the boundaries,” he said from the podium. “So that is why we are requesting to modify.”
He said they also have more businesses that wish to be included in the DORA, and is part of the amendment.
With the changes, the boundary to the south of downtown will no longer include Cherry Street.
“So with the new boundaries that we have now formed, we have those necessary letters of consent from entities like Signature School, City Church, Encounter Church and Trinity United Methodist Church.”
Following Alcohol and Tobacco Commission approval, specific signage needs to be in place.
Bars and restaurants will also need to use specific branded DORA cups. Evansville’s DORA could be ready to go in April.
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