HomeMy WebLinkAbout12-15-16 Public Comment - T. Fogleson - Bozeman TaproomFrom:Tony Fogleson
To:Agenda
Subject:Taproom Approval
Date:Thursday, December 15, 2016 12:30:41 PM
Good Morning.
I am writing today in support of the Taproom across the street from Hawthorne Elementary.
I have three children, all who have attended Hawthorne, one who is currently in fifth grade. In
my biased opinion, it is the best school in the valley. What this school has provided mychildren over the years is unmeasurable. I say this because I don't feel that this is a "school vs
bar" issue.
We all know there are many bars in close proximity to the school. It's unavoidable when youare a block away from Main Street. My biggest frustration in this back and forth battle is that
people are acting like the Taproom is something new. Some crazy idea masterminded to putalcohol and those that consume it closer to our children. Frankly, it's silly.
Someone would have to provide me the data that suggests liquor is in some way more
dangerous than beer and wine when both are consumed irresponsibly. As my email shows, Iam in the business of serving alcohol and it's a great business that comes with great
responsibilities. But in my over 20 years in the business, I have yet to see concrete evidencethat a spirit such as vodka or whiskey is in any way more dangerous than beer and wine. When
consumed responsibly they are the same. And when consumed unresponsibly, they all aredangerous for the consumer as well as others.
I think it's also important to see that all establishments that serve liquor are not the same. If
this was a gentlemans club or even another kind of bar similar to the Cats Paw or Zebra thereis no way I'd support it. But this is not that kind of place and I assume most people can tell the
difference.
Finally, I just feel if the precedent was set that absolutely no establishments that serve alcoholwould be allowed in the area, I could hop on board with that. But I feel like the Taproom is
getting picked on. Arguments such as the building is "facing the school" seem silly.
This is a great place run by young, responsible business owners and parents alike. If they areso lucky to get a full liquor license, I think they should be allowed the same opportunity as
other businesses in the same area.
Tony FoglesonCats Paw Liquor Store
721 N 7th AveBozeman, MT 59715