Ripon Amends Bingo Ordinance to Allow Alcohol Service During Games

The Ripon City Council voted 3-1-1 on April 8 to modify the city's bingo ordinance, allowing alcoholic beverages to be served and consumed during games at qualifying venues. The amendment marks a significant shift in local gaming regulations while maintaining strict oversight of bingo operations.

The change, spearheaded by Councilman Michael Restuccia, applies specifically to non-profit organizations, mobile home associations, senior citizen organizations, and school districts. These organizations must ensure all bingo proceeds go toward charitable purposes, maintaining compliance with California state law.

Restuccia, who doesn't drink but has played bingo at Spring Creek Golf & Country Club, cited his experiences there as inspiration for the amendment. He noted that players previously had to visit a separate bar room to enjoy alcoholic beverages during game breaks.

"The amendment won't change much beyond allowing players to enjoy a glass of wine or beer while playing," Restuccia explained during the monthly council session. He consulted with City Administrator Kevin Werner and Police Chief Danny Sauer before proposing the change, with both officials expressing no concerns about the modification.

However, not all council members shared this optimistic outlook. Councilman Leo Zuber, who cast the sole dissenting vote, voiced apprehension about potential future complications. "I'm worried about where this can go, not where it is," Zuber said. "Will we be back here in three or four years if something gets out of control?" He emphasized that the ordinance affects all qualifying venues in Ripon, not just Spring Creek.

City Clerk Lisa Roos explained that Ripon's original bingo ordinance was established to align with state legislation, which gives cities authority to monitor bingo operations. The California Penal Code strictly prohibits for-profit bingo games, restricts participation by minors, and requires that games be conducted by non-profit organizations.

Under the amended ordinance, organizations must obtain appropriate permits from the Department of Alcohol and Control before serving alcoholic beverages during bingo games. The modification will undergo its first reading at next month's City Council meeting before taking effect.

This update to the Municipal Code represents Ripon's ongoing efforts to balance recreational activities with responsible oversight, while maintaining compliance with state regulations.