HUMBOLDT — Barbecue and beer are a natural pairing, local chef Austin Honaker told Humboldt Council members in an appeal to allow alcohol consumption at this summer’s barbecue cookoff on the downtown square.
Honaker, owner of Cozy’s Grindhouse, is spearheading the Humboldt BBQ Cookoff the weekend of Aug. 23.
Allowing alcohol consumption could allow the event to “be bigger and better,” including attracting musical entertainment and a broader menu when participants enjoy the fruits of their labor, Honaker said at Monday’s Council meeting.
Five teams participated in last year’s event and raised $3,000 for Humboldt’s public schools. Honaker is projecting 10 teams will be in this year’s competition.
While Council members appeared amenable to Honaker’s request, Council member Bob Johnson recommended they not vote until next month’s meeting, allowing the public an opportunity to weigh in.
“I think we owe that to the citizens,” Johnson said.
Humboldt attorney Fred Works concurred, advising council members they should not vote on any measure the first time it is presented if it is something that affects the public.
“The public deserves the right to know about it before you vote,” Works said. 
Council members assigned a committee to further discuss Honaker’s request. It will include Council members Paul Cloutier, Cindy Holinsworth, Mayor Nobby Davis, City Administrator Cole Herder and Works.
HUMBOLDT is missing out on some easy money, according to Megan Arell, director of the Humboldt Chamber of Commerce.
Arell requested Council members implement a 6% transient guest tax that visitors pay when they take advantage of the town’s multiple lodging options.
Arell estimated the town could gain an estimated $8,000 a year if the tax were implemented. Arell noted Iola and Chanute levy the tax on out-of-towners.
Humboldt has 14 lodgings listed with Airbnb, which would include the tax with its fees and subsequently submit to the city, Arell said. Two-night stays average $300.
If levied, Humboldt would recoup 98% of the tax with the remainder going to the Kansas Department of Revenue.
Council members agreed to consider the matter.
CONSTRUCTION is due to begin in late June or early July on Humboldt’s water infrastructure including its delivery, treatment and storage. The work to replace water lines, water towers and improvements to the city’s water treatment plant is expected to take 18-24 months, Herder said.
