A discussion over alcohol in Lehigh Township parks led to nearly an hour of debate this week before supervisors ultimately decided to keep the current policy in place.

The issue surfaced after Police Chief John Henry asked the board for clarification about enforcement.

“If there is beer drinking in the parking lot after a baseball game, should we give a citation or leave it up to the discretion of the officer?” Henry asked.

Under Chapter 107-7 of the township code, alcohol is prohibited in township parks except at Indian Trail Park, where it is allowed under the pavilion if a permit is purchased.

What followed was about 45 minutes of discussion, with residents speaking over one another and the board.

Some said alcohol should never be allowed in township parks, while others said the long-standing rules should remain unchanged.

Supervisor Janet Sheats made a motion to keep the amendment as written, requiring a certificate of insurance and a signed waiver when renting a pavilion where alcohol would be permitted.

The board approved the motion unanimously.