Fine Arts Center takes next step for liquor license

The Sidney Fine Arts Center could be serving alcohol at gatherings and functions without having to bring in an outside business to provide it in the near future.

On Tuesday night, the center’s director of operations, Todd Flick, asked the Sidney City Council to put its stamp of approval on a liquor license application.

While the Nebraska Liquor Control Commission has final say in the matter, councilors unanimously passed a resolution recommending approval of the license for the center.

Flick said while he doesn’t have experience serving alcohol, he has been doing his homework and receiving training.

The Sidney Fine Arts Center won’t operate as full-time bar, but staff would like to be able to serve wine and beer during art shows and performances, he said.

Currently, a local establishment is hired to serve adult beverages during functions.

Mayor Mark Nienhueser asked Sidney Police Chief B.J. Wilkinson if he foresaw any issues.

“No, sir,” the chief answered.

In response to questions from other councilors, Flick said there would be a bouncer on site whenever alcohol is served and the beverages offered would be limited to bottled beer and boxed wine – with occasional bottled wine for tastings.

Councilor Wendall Gaston made a motion to pass the resolution, which was seconded by Chris Gay. In a roll-call vote, the resolution passed unanimously.

Also at the meeting:

• A Title VI Non-Discrimination Plan for the City of Sidney Transportation Project was passed.

Jo Houser, the city’s human resources director, said the plan is required to receive federal funding for road projects.

The plan complies with the Civil Rights Act of 1964, she added.

According to the plan, the City of Sidney Transportation Project “… ensures that no person shall, on the grounds of race, color or national origin, be excluded from participation in, denied the benefits or services of, or be otherwise subjected to discrimination in all programs, services or activities administered by the agency.”

• Numerous pay requests for street improvement, sanitary sewer extension and water extension districts were approved. The requests came from the Ranch and Reganis developments.

Public Services Director John Hehnke told councilors progress was being made at both sites.

“We would recommend payment on all,” he added.

• Three current Sidney Planning Commission members were reappointed to the board. The terms for Don Egging, Tim Smith and John Phillips were up on June 1, and all three indicated willingness to serve additional 3-year terms.

• The next Sidney City Council meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, June 23 at 7:15 p.m. at city hall.