At last night's City Council meeting on December 2, 2024, an important decision was made. The Council approved an application for a new retail (on-off sale) malt beverage and South Dakota farm wine license for MADJIK LLC, doing business as Legends, located at 825 3rd St. Southwest, the former Thunder Road. This approval came after a detailed discussion considering various aspects and potential impacts on the community.

The Controversial Approval of a Retail License in Watertown

Safety and Family-Friendly Considerations

During the meeting, concerns about safety and maintaining a family-friendly environment were at the forefront. Assistant Chief Remmers highlighted potential safety risks and the erosion of a family-friendly atmosphere. There were worries about the mixing of alcohol with activities like operating go-karts, as go-karts are considered motor vehicles and operating them under the influence of alcohol is illegal. The introduction of alcohol to a family entertainment center could lead to a decline in its family-friendly appeal, making it less attractive to families with young children.Furthermore, the proximity of Legends to the Watertown Family Aquatic Center raised concerns about its potential negative influence on this neighboring facility that families and children frequently visit. Allowing alcohol sales at family-oriented venues could contribute to the normalization of alcohol consumption in environments where children are present, potentially influencing their future attitudes and behaviors towards alcohol.

Responsible Alcohol Management by MADJIK LLC

Kyle Wiesner, representing MADJIK LLC, assured the Council that strict measures could be taken to manage alcohol consumption responsibly. He discussed the purchased point-of-sale system's capability of tracking an individual's alcohol use, which the go-cart crew can view. Once the business decides on its tolerance policy, it will be implemented. This shows the company's commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of its customers.

The Council's Decision and Voting

After a thorough discussion, the Council members voted in favor of the license. The motion passed with a majority vote, with Councilman Tupper and Schutte voting no. This decision was based on a careful consideration of all the factors presented and the potential benefits and risks associated with the approval. It reflects the Council's responsibility in balancing the needs of the community with the opportunities for local business growth.Listen to the full meeting below: (No specific audio link provided in the original, so this part remains as is)