Business owners find issues with CAB ordinance

Toccoa City Commissioners recently approved a first reading of the complimentary alcoholic beverages ordinance.

However, some local business owners and residents came before the commission Monday night during the meeting each expressing concern.

The main concern being the cost of the license required to serve complimentary alcoholic beverages; but also, the implications this new ordinance would have on local small businesses and the prospects of future business owners.

Rebekah Gailer owner of Organic Spa and Salon Anastasia, located in Toccoa addressed the commission with concerns.

“We have all worked so hard to make people want to live, shop, open businesses, and stay in Toccoa but this only restricts what we’ve been working towards.”

Toccoa Stephens County Chamber of Commerce President Julie Paysen also presented questions and concerns regarding both small business owners who may not be able to afford the $500 licensing fee and the Chamber of Commerce’s Business after Hours.

Alcohol Beverage Control board member Tara Simmons also attended the meeting, where she addressed the business owners regarding the proposed ordinance.

“Only one business owner attended the last ABC board meeting…It didn’t seem like a prevalent issue.”

The commission will meet Nov. 27 at 5 p.m. in hopes of providing answers before approving a second reading of the proposed ordinance.