Albany City Commission proposed Sunday alcohol sales

ALBANY, Ga. – A major decision in the city of Albany will be on the ballot this November. As the city commission is looking to approve Sunday alcohol sales within the Good Life City.

We caught up with Ward 1 Commissioner Jon Howard Wednesday afternoon about the decision regarding Sunday alcohol sales on the ballot…

And… how the city of Albany is taking a step that so many municipalities in Georgia have taken over the last few years.

“So, we are hoping when it comes to the general election in November this year, there will be a statewide referendum. And, from dealing with things of this nature, I think it’s most likely going to pass statewide,” said Commissioner Jon Howard, Ward 1, City of Albany.

The city commission brought the issue to the forefront after new legislations went into effect on July 1st.

And… it’s been part of a push over the past few years to legalize Sunday alcohol sales across Georgia.

“First, you have a lot of lobbyist groups in Atlanta, and surrounding areas who are still pushing for it. That when you have conventions, visitors come to town, they want to go to a mall, or go to a nice, eat-in restaurant. After church they want to go in to a nice restaurant, have a beer, a wine, or a mixed drink,” said Commissioner Howard.

However, despite the potential that Sunday alcohol sales may bring in, there are concerns with the measure…

One being that many in the community over the years have been against adding in liquor stores in portions of east Albany.

When asked about it, Commissioner Howard says he is still planning to look out for his community’s safety.

“Well, I’m also concerned about the citizens of this community, especially in the neighborhoods we represent. And, too much of anything can be abused. And, I’ve always looked out for the safety of this community. And I will continue to look out for the safety of this community,” said Commissioner Howard.

But… the city commission is hoping the measure will pass in November, and be a long-term benefit for Albany.

“I think that we’ve got to educate the individuals and say ‘if you don’t get out and vote, this is probably what’s going to happen.’ But, I think in the long run, that it will be okay to stay in a hotel, motel, or a restaurant and enjoy your drink there. But, the problem is when individuals leave there in the afternoon or night, and they go out and really create a problem for the public safety officers,” said Commissioner Howard.

With Sunday alcohol sales on the ballot this November, the city commission is encouraging Albany residents to speak with them to find out more of what it entails.

The proposed Sunday alcohol measure would allow for sales between 12:30 p.m. and 11:30 p.m. on Sundays.

Brian Roche reporting.

Copyright 2024 CBS 44 South Georgia. All rights reserved.