While the staff report recommended a Bungendore alcohol free zone, and several speakers addressed council on the matter in favour of the proposal, the Bungendore Chamber of Commerce had made a submission against the proposal and Bungendore hotels were also opposed to it.

Dr Marjorie Cross addressed Council on the matter and noted that "there is no evidence that Alcohol free zones will do it on their own, but are one tool available to local Govt and the police to take a stand."

Cr Graham spoke against the proposal saying he was concerned the council officers would do the policing, that it was not a powerful policing tool, and that "you don't need a bottle in your hand to urinate or break glass."

Cr Graham proposed an alternative motion that Council petition for more funds for policing.

The vote was split with Moore, Turley, Cockram and Goonan for the proposal and Crs Bransdon, Graham and Crozier against. New Mayor Cr Raynolds said he was now confronted with the problem that all Mayors have. "I would like to see the casting vote is used to maintain the status quo, however I am philosophically aligned with the later" said Raynolds and the motion was lost.

Snr Constable Pearce said that all the publicans in Braidwood were in favour of it as were a large number of submissions. "This is a tool to help the publican control the patrons" said Pearce.

Cr Goonan seconded the motion saying "what is missing here is the absolute damage here that excessive alcohol does. It's extremely dangerous and disruptive in our society...Behind the signage is your community and your council. At least trial it."

Cr Bransdon quipped that "It must be a bigger problem in Braidwood than in Bungendore."

Cr Crozier was against the proposal. "Making little regulations that we have to enforce,... where do you draw the line?"

Cr Graham suggested that they should try an amended motion for only two years, however said, there was "acknowledged fact that there is some doubt as to its effectiveness."

The motion was carried unanimously.