HomeMy WebLinkAbout12-08-09 Community Alcohol Coalition Minutes.docx
Minutes: December 8, 2009 minutes, Community Alcohol Coalition
Members present: Rick Gale, Becky Franks, Marty Kent, Glenn Puffer, Jenny Haubenreiser
November minutes were approved by members present.
No public comment.
Special presentations
-Jenny gave an overview of a recent City proclamation making December Drunk & Drugged Driving
Prevention Month. Jenna presented this to the mayor during a Commission meeting, who read and
accepted the proclamation. Jenna and Jenny were allowed to make remarks following the
proclamation. Jenny mentioned the work CAC is doing on social host and told them more information
would be forthcoming.
-Jenny presented an informational email sent to a state prevention professional listserv re: recent
changes to Helena’s social host ordinance. Due to barriers in the enforcement of the policy, Helena’s
City Commission recently approved changing the sanction from a civil infraction to a misdemeanor.
-Glenn initiated a discussion of the campus Drug Free School and Campus Act biennial policy review. In
the past he has solicited input from CAC members since alcohol and drug issues reach well beyond the
boundaries of campus. CAC members serve as an “off-campus constituency” for the review. Glenn
provided background on the policy and pointed out areas that remain a challenge. Jenny will email
relevant documents and discussion questions to the CAC members for input; the February meeting will
be largely devoted to this discussion.
Action Items
-Jenny discussed new information about social host policies within the state, including David Madison’s
SHO fact sheet. Rick approached the Parents Advisory Council at BHS about doing a presentation on
the policy, receiving a favorable response. Becky will assist Rick with this group. Jenny and Jason will be
meeting soon to plan a formal presentation to the City Commission. This will be done after the final
Commission membership is in place.
New Business
-The group discussed the issue of medical marijuana and how this is creating problems for various
institutions and agencies within the community. The law is loosely written and abuse is becoming
increasingly evident. While this issue is outside the scope of the CAC, members feel this should be
considered for inclusion within the CAC’s mission as this will only be increasing in scope.
-The group discussed the Christmas Stroll. Marty reported that planners had gotten an open container
waiver for the event. While no major problems were reported, the group acknowledged the ongoing
potential public confusion – some of these events have a waiver, some do not. Without visible
notification, the public generally doesn’t know whether open containers are allowed at these events.
-The members present agreed to cancel the January meeting due to the number of members traveling
at that time.
Meeting adjourned at 5:30 p.m.