Kansas City, Missouri, has approved 16 establishments to serve alcohol until 5 a.m. in specific districts for the length of the FIFA World Cup tournament, June 11 through July 19. The Mutual Musicians Foundation, a National Historic Landmark in the 18th and Vine Jazz District, has traditionally been the only spot in Kansas City to serve alcohol past 3 a.m.

Background

The foundation has a century-old tradition of filling the air with jazz and glasses with libations into the early morning hours. James McGee, secretary of Mutual Musicians Foundation, said the Friday and Saturday night revelry started organically, with local musicians gathering for informal after-hours jam sessions.

Missouri passed a law last year allowing 23-hour alcohol service to all licensed establishments during the World Cup. Kansas passed a similar law several months later. However, Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas introduced an ordinance to scale back to standard hours, citing public safety concerns.

Compromise Reached

A compromise was reached, allowing all establishments licensed to sell liquor by the drink to stay open until 3 a.m., with some eligible to serve alcohol until 5 a.m. in designated entertainment districts. The compromise ordinance passed with a unanimous vote in the City Council.

Markus Smith, a division manager with regulated industries, said the process was fast due to the World Cup’s impending start. The Kansas City Police Department did not take a position on the ordinance but collaborated in creating the application and security plan for establishments seeking to stay open until 5 a.m.

Original reporting: The Beacon (Kansas City) — read the source article.