Staff photo by Fritz Busch Brown County commissioners from left, Brian Braun, Tony Berg, Jeff Veerkamp and Dave Borchert discuss topics at the board meeting Tuesday.

NEW ULM — In an effort to discourage underage possession and consumption of alcohol, marijuana and other controlled substances, Brown County commissioners unanimously approved a social host ordinance (SHO) Tuesday.

The ordinance makes it unlawful for individuals (social hosts) to provide a place for underage drinking to occur on a premises under the host’s control. The host is held responsible regardless of who provided the alcohol.

Several Heart of New Ulm Chemical Health Action Team members attended a public hearing on the topic. Action team member Jen Maurer spoke in support of it.

“Underage drinking is a significant issue in our county, leading to serious health and safety consequences. According to the 2022 Minnesota Student Survey, our youth consume alcohol and binge drink at higher rates compared to other areas of the state,” said Maurer.

“This alarming trend is evident with 25 percent of 11th graders and 14 percent of ninth graders report alcohol consumption in the last 30 days, 11 percent of 11th graders and five percent of ninth graders engage in binge drinking,” she said.

Maurer said survey data shows youth often obtain alcohol from their parents, homes, and friends.

“A (SHO) holds adults accountable for knowingly providing a place where underage drinking occurs. Let’s work together to protect our youth and create a safer, healthier county for everyone,” she said.

Maurer said four Brown County cities already have SHOs, extending one to the rest of the county is a logical step.

“The majority of house parties are happening in the country,” according to a Brown County student survey comment.

Commissioner Dave Borchert, also the New Ulm Police chief, said police took search warrants to underage drinking parties facilitated by an adult with individuals under age 21 hiding in attics and closets.

“I’m in complete support of this ordinance. I think it’s a very helpful deterrent. I thank the organization (Brown County Chemical Health Action Team) for coming here with good data,” he said.

“We’re also concerned about people taking over abandoned farms for parties,” said Commissioner Scott Windschitl.

A SHO ordinance violation is a misdemeanor with a maximum penalty of 90 days in jail and/or a $1,000 fine. No charges are made unless the (party) host knows of the violation.

“Laws are in place for a reason, promoting safety for everybody. Alcohol, marijuana, methamphetamine and other controlled substances tear families apart,” said Braun.

Approval came on a motion by Borchert, seconded by Brian Braun.