City Commission moves forward with Complementary Alcoholic Beverage Ordinance

The Toccoa City Commission held the second reading of the Complementary Alcoholic Beverage Ordinance, during its meeting last night.

The first reading was held last month and received a lot of negative responses from both business owners and residents of Toccoa.

However, the commission updated the previous proposed ordinance by adjusting the licensing fee from $500 annually to $250 per calendar year.

City Manager Billy Morse introduced the amended ordinance.

“This ordinance would allow businesses with license to serve complementary alcoholic beverages on an occasional basis,” Morse said.

However, Commissioner Terry Carter found opposition to the conditions outlined in section h, which would require a parent or guardian to be present at any time that a minor is in the business establishment and complimentary drinks are being provided.

Following Carter’s statements, Commissioner Gail Fry came forward agreeing with Carter.

Toccoa Mayor Jeanette Jamieson added that this would be considered the first reading of the proposed ordinance, and a second reading would be waived.

The Commission voted and approved to move forward with adopting this ordinance.

For a complete copy of the ordinance contact City Clerk Fredda Wheeler at 706-282-3225.