Panel hears pros and cons of alcohol laws
A Public hearing draws concerns from both sides.
The conversation about drinking in the city of Rome kicked off in earnest at the Alcohol Control Commission meeting Monday night.
Two proposals held the floor for discussion: eliminating the 50/50 food-todrink sales ratio for establishments that sell liquor and establishing a district where drinks may be carried openly outside.
“This isn’t a just a business decision you’re making … this will change the face of Rome,” Carolyn Falcitelli reminded the panel made up of three city commissioners and three appointed residents.
About 30 people — business owners, community activists, church members, restaurant patrons and others — spent about two hours sharing their views. The ACC chairwoman, City Commissioner Wendy Davis, said there would be more opportunity for input before any decisions are made.
People in favor of the changes said they would expand the types of entertainment and hospitality businesses that could thrive in Rome.
Connie Sams, of River Dog Outpost on Broad Street, spoke of a Sunday trip to Ponce City Market in Atlanta, where she bought a beer and wandered the stalls to shop. Others mentioned dance clubs, and Steven McDowell talked of the different rules for his cigar bars in Rome, Cartersville and Gadsden, Alabama.
“For a town, a city, to grow, you have to bring in young people,” said Jeanne Cahill. “They want to get out and enjoy themselves, and many leave here every weekend to go to Atlanta or other places where they can have fun.”
Those against loosening the restrictions contended that alcohol is a factor in many violent assaults, and a culture that encourages drinking sends the wrong message to young people.
“We need to make sure the businesses coming to Rome are beneficial, and not a nuisance to Rome,” said Angela Dollar.
Mary Shotwell Smith, director of student health services at Shorter University, and Angie Robinson with Floyd Against Drugs, spoke of the need to protect impressionable teens and college students.
“You’re opening a keg that will eventually blow up,” said Gordon Wells, pastor of New Life of St. John Baptist Church.
But John Hickman, a teacher at Berry College, was among those who cited the need for personal responsibility.
“That does not fall on the ACC’s shoulders,” member Colin Doss agreed.
City Clerk Joe Smith presented the open container district ordinances passed in Alpharetta, Dalton, Acworth and Roswell. Plans are to get more information about the problems and benefits those cities have experienced and try to focus in on a recommendation to the full City Commission.
A timetable has not been set, but the ACC’s May 15 meeting will feature license hearings for three venues that have been the site of police action.
The owners of convenience stores at 1714 Turner McCall Blvd. and 1120 Calhoun Ave. have been charged with selling synthetic marijuana. Also, Rome police Maj. Rodney Bailey said several people were arrested at an April 7 after-hours party at J.R. Crickets, 201 Broad St.