City officials examined changes Wednesday to the city’s alcohol policy that would provide underage students with more flexibility in entertainment options and potentially create a safer nightlife.

The Alcohol License Review Committee debated the possibility of changing the current provisions governing downtown bars that currently restrict most entertainment venues to a 21 and older audience.

The current Alcohol License Density Ordinance, passed in 2007, limits the number of licenses issued to new bars, taverns and liquor stores on the University of Wisconsin campus.

Mark Woulf, the city’s alcohol policy review coordinator, said the plan is intended to decrease alcohol-related crime and disorder, and the city has seen success in the plan so far.

“The bottom line and what I want to highlight is that we have seen a decrease in taverns from ’07 to today by four,” Woulf said.

Because some committee members believe ALDO has increased the number of house parties on campus, the committee discussed the possibility of including exceptions for certain circumstances and for entertainment venues applying for a license.

Hannah Somers, vice chair for the Associated Students of Madison’s Legislative Affairs Committee, proposed there should be entertainment venues open to 18-year-olds and older. 

“The entertainment reform will allow alternatives to house parties for young adults,” Somers said. “As students, we want to see a safe, enjoyable and unique nightlife and we hope to see ALDO move forward.” 

Committee member and UW employee Dawn Crim said there has not been an increase in house parties as a result of ALDO. 

The committee did not reach a consensus on the proposed changes and will reconvene at a later, undetermined date to further discuss the matter. 

ALRC also approved a motion to grant a 21 and older entertainment license for Logan’s Madtown. The license would allow the establishment to host live entertainment such as live bands, DJs and video DJs. 

Osaka House submitted an original alcohol beverage license application, which would require all employees to have liquor licenses.

Ald. Mike Verveer, District 4, moved to grant the request with the condition that Osaka functioned as a restaurant – serving food at all times. Verveer also requested the owners meet with the Madison Police Department’s Central District.