Posted 11:13 am Wednesday, October 24, 2012
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Tyler council reviewing zoning ordinances in advance of alcohol vote
Tyler city leaders are eyeing possible changes to zoning ordinances ahead of the Nov. 6 vote that could possibly legalize the sale of beer and wine for off-premises consumption.
Members of the Tyler City Council said they want to ensure laws governing conditions under which alcohol can be sold are appropriate.
State laws govern certain provisions associated with alcohol sales, but the community has some regulatory authority on certain issues, such as signage and distance from certain institutions, such as schools and churches.
City Planner Heather Nick said close scrutiny is being given to the amount of signage allowed in windows and outside certain establishments.
Councilman Mark Whatley and other elected leaders indicated the city is committed to doing what is legally possible to retain the beauty of the community.
Earlier this year, the “Buy Local First” special purpose political action committee announced a plan to seek voter approval for legalized sales in Precinct 2, which includes southwestern Tyler, Flint and Bullard, records show.
Voters are being asked to consider two provisions, one being the legal sale of beer and wine for off-premises consumption in places such as grocery and convenience stores.
The second option permits the legal sale of mixed beverages in restaurants by food and beverage certificate holders only. This version was overwhelmingly approved by Tyler voters in 2008, but the current effort would expand sales to areas annexed after 2008 and in Justice Precinct 2.
Early voting for that election started Monday and city leaders said they will be ready, legally, should the initiative pass.
City Planner Heather Nick said close scrutiny is being given to the amount of signage allowed in windows and outside certain establishments.
Councilman Mark Whatley and other elected leaders indicated the city is committed to doing what is legally possible to retain the beauty of the community.
Earlier this year, the “Buy Local First” special purpose political action committee announced a plan to seek voter approval for legalized sales in Precinct 2, which includes southwestern Tyler, Flint and Bullard, records show.
Voters are being asked to consider two provisions, one being the legal sale of beer and wine for off-premises consumption in places such as grocery and convenience stores.
The second option permits the legal sale of mixed beverages in restaurants by food and beverage certificate holders only. This version was overwhelmingly approved by Tyler voters in 2008, but the current effort would expand sales to areas annexed after 2008 and in Justice Precinct 2.
Early voting for that election started Monday and city leaders said they will be ready, legally, should the initiative pass.
