JANESVILLE — How do you effectively balance state alcohol rules with a changing business climate?

Janesville City Council members have been debating a change to the process for restaurants that serve alcohol to apply for sidewalk dining. The council is expected to revisit the issue in October.

In its first program of the new season, the Rock County Civics Academy takes a deep dive into the issues facing council members and local Janesville businesses.

The program is open to the public and begins at 6 p.m. is Wednesday, Sept. 27, 2023 at the Italian House on East Racine Street in Janesville.

Much has changed because of the pandemic. The question is how you reconcile changing progressive business practices with current alcohol law and policy.

Janesville’s restaurants and bars are a test case. How do you regulate and not stifle business?

Panalists include:

• Maureen Busalacchi, from the Wisconsin Alcohol Policy Project
• Matt Kealy, President of the downtown Business Improvement District and restaurant owner.
• Representative from the Janesville City Council.

Those who attend will be able to ask questions of the panel and register for door prizes.

The Rock County Civics Academy is a non-partisan, good government organization advocating for transparency and public policy clarity.

Photo by Gerrie van der Walt on Unsplash