South Whidbey Parks and Recreation district has amended its alcohol policy to allow consumption in Community Park at events that anticipate over 250 guests. Any use of alcohol in Community Park must be approved by the parks board of commissioners before any alcohol is allowed on the district’s property.

The 250 person mark was established to prevent people from bringing alcohol to youth sporting events in the park, but leaving the possibility open for large festive events in the future.

“This is not going to allow everyone to bring all their alcohol to the park for a concert, rather this limits that and allows for control of the situation,” Parks Director Doug Coutts said during June’s regular parks board meeting.

The district’s previous policy didn’t allow alcohol under any circumstance, but the amendment now allows them to set up a designated drinking area at their discretion. Alcohol will still not be allowed on the fields; commissioners discussed using the parking lot or basketball court as the future designated area.

The amendment has been in the works since the parks district approved Choochokam’s move to Community Park. The amendment was passed despite Choochokam’s cancelation.