Farmers’ market now offering local brew

KAMLOOPS – A typical crowd formed during the Saturday morning farmers’ market but they weren't just lining up for fresh produce — it was the first time wine sampling was allowed at a Kamloops market and people were more than willing to stand in line for a sample.

The farmers’ market was given the green light to offer locally produced wine, beer and spirits this past week and on Saturday two local companies took advantage, offering wine samples and sales to hundreds of people on St. Paul Street. After the provincial government overhauled liquor laws to allow such an event, Kamloops City Hall agreed to try it as a pilot project. 

But that decision didn't come without reservation. Coun. Pat Wallace was concerned about the possible stress put on bylaw officers if people start getting drunk at the market.

“I don’t want us as a taxpayer in this city to take responsibility. If you go to the bar and get smackled, police will deal with you,” she said. “I’m not worried about the children (being near the alcohol), I’m worried about our bylaw officers being called in.”

To contact a reporter for this story, email Jennifer Stahn at jstahn@infonews.ca or call 250-819-3723. To contact an editor, email mjones@infonews.ca or call 250-718-2724.