EVANSTON — Evanston City Council members discussed topics concerning malt beverage permits, beekeeping and received a presentation from members of the Bear River Mountain Men Rendezvous during the meeting on May 16.

A limited malt beverage permit was requested by Nicole Espy for the Strike Out Cancer Softball Tournament at the Overthrust Ball Fields from June 9-11. 

The fundraiser brought in $3,000 last year to help fight cancer. The council approved the request again for this year’s tournament.

Another limited malt beverage permit was requested by Kathy Bella for the Evanston Bluegrass Festival at Depot Square, scheduled for June 23-24. 

Ordinance 17-03, which would allow beekeeping in Evanston city limits, is still under discussion. The first reading passed at the meeting. 

Councilman Mike Sellers said he liked the ordinance, and questioned if there should be a set number of beehives. He also listed off a few concerns, such as cost, small children with bee allergies and a limit on hives. 

Councilman Andy Kopp said he’s also concerned about how the ordinance might affect small children and said he’d like to know what neighbors might think of in-city hives. He encouraged members of the community to comment and give their opinion on the matter. 

“I think it would give the beekeepers feedback; if you want hives in your backyard, educate your neighbors,” said Kopp, “We want to make sure we provide an appropriate [amount of] awareness for the public. … I think the public might have some concerns.”

One resident told the council that honeybees aren’t nearly the threat as wasps or hornets when it comes to allergies.

The ordinance must pass two more readings in order to go into effect.