Whistler Olympic Park has obtained the necessary local government approval for an application to change its liquor licence, which would accommodate for an increase in wedding bookings at the Callaghan Valley facility.

The Squamish-Lillooet Regional District board supported the park’s application to add a patron participation entertainment endorsement to its food primary liquor licende during Monday’s (Aug. 27) meeting in Pemberton. The endorsement allows events to feature live music and a dance floor.

Electoral Area D director Moe Freitag, whose region includes the facility, was the lone director opposed to supporting the licence change, citing concerns about the potential for impaired driving on Callaghan Valley Road.

Due to its remote location and lack of access to transit and other transportation methods, Freitag said it wasn’t the same as making a change to an existing establishment in or near a municipality. He expressed concern that any alcohol-related incidents could reflect poorly on the board.

District of Squamish directors Patricia Heintzman and Doug Race both said they viewed the application as a minor change to the licence. Race also noted it gives venue operator Whistler Sport Legacies another avenue to become financially sustainable. Their comments didn’t change Freitag’s mind.

“They’re sticking around longer to drink more and I can’t support it,” he said.