OKC Indoor Soccer Arena Applies For Alcohol Zoning Permit

The owner's of the indoor soccer arena, SoccerCity OKC, are kicking around the idea of serving alcohol. The business has applied for an Alcohol Zoning permit from the city of Oklahoma City.

The only problem, not everyone supports the idea.

SoccerCity OKC is located in the middle of a large northwest Oklahoma City neighborhood. Some of the residents oppose the idea of allowing the business to serve alcohol. One of the residents leading the opposition is James Geyer. He is concerned the kind of message it sends to children.

"SoccerCity OKC even advertises birthday parties and lock-ins. So we just don't think it's appropriate to expose young kids to alcohol," Geyer said.

The decision has been presented to the city's Planning Commission and was split 4 to 4 on a motion for approval. The next step is to go before Oklahoma City council members for approval.

Geyer and a large number of residents have petitioned the city to not approve the re-zoning request.

SoccerCity's general manager Matt Fansher is well aware of the opposition.

"I've tried to reach out to them with every little thing we've done," Fansher said.

Fansher said if approved, SoccerCity OKC would only serve beer and not liquor at concession stands. The business is looking to cater to their largest clientele.

"We are about 85% adult based," Fansher said.

Fansher said the business owns another facility in Tulsa. Alcohol is served at that facility and Fansher said they have not had any problems.

"They've been able to do it there and we're hoping to do it here, as well," Fansher said.

City council will vote on the re-zoning in the coming weeks.