New bill allows flexibility in alcohol sales
The state legislature last week passed House Bill 85, lifting restrictions prohibiting the sales of alcoholic beverages for “off-premises consumption” within 200 yards of a school. This gives Decatur more flexibility in locating a grocery in a future mixed-use development on the Callaway Building property, which is next door to Decatur High.
“It’s easier for us to develop a better site plan to break up the block into a more pedestrian-focused layout,” said Assistant City Manager Lyn Menne.
It’s expected that later this year the city commission will change the ordinances related to distance restrictions for both off-premises and on-premises (i.e., restaurants) consumption. Construction should begin in the first quarter of next year.
“This change in the state legislation is very important to urban areas,” Menne added, “and extends control to local governments over this type of decision which should really be a local decision.”
