MENTOR, Ohio — Mentor officials defended a new ban on coolers at Mentor Rocks concerts after residents criticized the policy online and some council members questioned whether the change was necessary.
City officials said the policy was adopted to help enforce long-standing prohibitions on outside alcohol and glass containers at the Mentor Civic Amphitheater. Officials also pointed out that the concert series is funded through sponsorships, beverage sales and food vendor fees.
City Council addressed the backlash days after the city announced the cooler ban, prompting complaints on social media from attendees who are accustomed to bringing food, drinks and other items to the free outdoor events…