Tisbury selectmen say BYOB means no sale
By Janet Hefler
Published: May 7, 2009
The rumored sale of alcohol in Tisbury restaurants prompted discussion Tuesday at the Tisbury selectmen's meeting.
Following an announcement by Chief John Cashin that Officers Jason Marathas and Scott Ogden are to receive awards from Mothers Against Drunk Driving on May 13, selectman Tristan Israel asked Chief Cashin about enforcing the town's laws that prohibit the sale of alcohol in restaurants where a bring-your-own-bottle (BYOB) practice is allowed. Mr. Israel said some voters at town meeting said they had observed incidents of illegal sales at some Tisbury establishments.
Chief Cashin said enforcement would be difficult, because it would likely involve hiring undercover police officers. He agreed with Mr. Israel's idea that the selectmen should start by writing a letter to restaurant owners with a BYOB policy, reminding them to adhere to the law or risk a criminal violation. Geoghan Coogan, a practicing attorney and the newest selectman, suggested the letter should set out the penalties, as well.
Also Tuesday, Mr. Israel and selectman Jeff Kristal joined town officials in welcoming Mr. Coogan, elected unopposed in April, to his first meeting with the board.
In keeping with tradition, the selectmen elected the most senior board member, Mr. Israel, chairman and Mr. Coogan clerk.
At Mr. Israel's invitation, assistant health inspector Maura Valley updated the selectmen on swine flu. Island students and families who traveled to Mexico over school vacation are now past the seven-day incubation period for the virus, she said.
Since viral cases in the U.S. appear to be less severe than those in Mexico, Ms. Valley said state health officials are now advising people exhibiting mild symptoms and at low risk of other health complications to stay home to recuperate, rather than seeking urgent care.
The selectmen approved a request from 25/7 Productions to film scenes for a television series on Beach Road extension and the nearby beach area on May 6, 7, and 10.
And selectmen agreed to provide Bruce Marshard with a key to a padlock on the town dog park gate, which will allow him access with his draft horses and wagon to an ancient way off Holmes Hole Road. Mr. Marshard said he uses the path to travel with his horses from West Tisbury to get supplies from the SBS store.
