The problem is so widespread that enforcement is difficult.
"It would be impossible and also not feasible to arrest everyone drinking at parks," Police Chief Michael Nakamura said. "This is similar to fireworks in that people in the community are not united in their concern for alcohol in parks.
"We need to slowly change people's thinking about it," Nakamura added. "The message is alcohol is a drug. We preach to kids about staying off drugs and they see adults drinking at the park for hours after (youth) games. Those doing it are setting a bad example."
The recent beating death of 37-year-old Lynne Lindquist at Palolo Recreation Center has heightened concerns about post-game drinking at parks.
"The law is clear," said Councilman John Henry Felix, chairman of the Parks, Health and Safety committees. "What is needed is more signs and better enforcement.
"We know that virtually every day, the ordinance is broken," he added. "Taking coolers (with alcohol) to the park has become a too common practice."
Felix will ask the Parks Department to put up more signs alerting the public that drinking is prohibited. He wants police to increase monitoring.
At Palolo Recreation Center, two signs concerning alcohol are posted on the sides of the office building, out of view of anyone going to the baseball field.
Anyone arrested for drinking at a park faces a $500 fine and/or imprisonment. "Like any crime, it will be prosecuted," said Doug Woo of the prosecuting attorney's office.
Park permits issued for use of city facilities state that drinking of alcoholic beverages is prohibited.
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