The Vincennes City Council has approved an ordinance establishing a designated outdoor refreshment area in the city’s downtown.

Council members gave final approval to the DORA during Monday night’s meeting following discussion over whether the measure should be delayed for additional review.

Councilman Ryan Lough argued the ordinance should be sent to committee to allow more public input before moving forward.

“I’d like to slow down, take a look at it, and let the community comment on it,” Lough said. “When we make changes like this, we’re touching what I would call the moral fabric of the community. This opens up a new dynamic by allowing people to carry drinks as they move through downtown, and to me, that changes what downtown is like.”

Council President Brian Grove responded that the ordinance had already gone through a public process following its first reading.

“I respect that, but we passed this on first reading two weeks ago and I haven’t had any conversations opposing it in that time,” Grove said. “That’s why we separate ordinances into two readings, so people have an opportunity to reach out and share their opinions.”

A motion to send the ordinance to the public safety committee was voted down, and the council proceeded with final readings.

Under Indiana law, a DORA allows people 21 and older to purchase alcoholic beverages from approved businesses and carry them outside within a defined area.

The designated zone will include much of the downtown district, including Main Street and the Riverwalk, along with participating businesses.

The ordinance passed on a 5 to 2 vote, with Lough and Councilman Ed Gornall voting against it.