Council adopts stricter alcoholic-beverage zoning rules; package-store buffer draws debate

On second and final reading City Council adopted ordinance 042025, which revises the zoning code's treatment of alcoholic-beverage uses. The ordinance updates definitions (including "package store" and "bottle club"), adds parks and playgrounds to the list of uses from which certain alcohol retailers must be distanced and aligns the separation between bars and schools with state law at 500 feet. It also clarifies measurement rules for calculating separation distances and creates a distinct definition and rules for limited "accessory" alcohol sales when alcohol is not the primary business.\n\nPlanning staff explained that the revision adds a minimum 300-foot separation for package/liquor stores from certain sensitive uses and retains a 300-foot residential buffer for bars in most locations; staff'led mapping showed existing nonconforming uses would be limited (staff identified one bar at 238 Peachtree Street and one package store at 1105 Clear Lake Road as nonconforming under the new distances). The council discussed concerns from Diamond Square-area residents and property owners about a proposed package store at a specific corner; an amendment to remove package stores from the 300-foot requirement was proposed and failed. On final vote the ordinance passed 3'2 (Mayor Blake, Councilman Hearn and Councilman Gornes voting yes; Deputy Mayor Weeks and Councilwoman Koss voting no).\n\nStaff said existing nonconforming uses may continue under the city's nonconformity rules and that establishments may apply for special exceptions where the code requires them. The changes take effect per the ordinance's effective date. Councilmembers urged the planning staff to continue outreach and to clarify how the city will measure and enforce the new distances.