Title
Vote on a request to approve a Resolution Requesting the Chatham County Board of Elections Hold Elections Regarding the On-Premises Sale of Malt Beverages
Abstract
Action Requested: Vote on a request to approve a Resolution Requesting the Chatham County Board of Elections Hold Elections Regarding the On-Premises Sale of Malt Beverages.
Introduction & Background: Legal sales of alcoholic beverages within Chatham County extend to the on-premises and off-premises sale of unfortified wine, fortified wine, and mixed beverages (liquor). Permits for malt beverages are authorized to be issued for off-premises sales, but limited to only certain types of establishments for on-premises sales. The proposed resolution requests the Chatham County Board of Elections to place a referendum on the March 2020 primary election ballot, which will allow Chatham County voters to decide if permits for on-premises sale of malt beverages should be extended beyond the limited types of establishments under current authority.
Discussion & Analysis: While certain opportunities already exist within Chatham County for the on-premises sale of alcoholic beverages, gaps remain in the types of permits that may be legally obtained within the County under current authority. Specifically, the on-premises sale of malt beverages is not permitted within any establishment that is not a hotel, motel, restaurant, private club, community theater or convention center. The action requested will allow for the matter of on-premises sale of malt beverages, within establishments not herein listed, to be placed on the primary election ballot in March of 2020, as a referendum. This referendum will enable the electorate of Chatham County to vote for or against this proposition.
How does this relate to the Comprehensive Plan: This item aligns with Goal 4 of the Comprehensive Plan, which articulates a direction to diversify the tax base and generate more quality, in-county jobs to reduce dependence on residential property taxes, create economic opportunity and reduce out-commuting. The requested action seeks to:
• Create opportunity to expand existing tax base by encouraging investment in Chatham County.
• Increase localized job opportunities not otherwise available under current restrictions.
• Expand small-business development opportunities.
• Improve sales tax and tourism-related revenue performance along with secondary impacts related to complementary goods and services.
• Capture sales leakages to surrounding counties.
Budgetary Impact: None. The referendum is proposed to be placed on a ballot for an election that is already scheduled, where expenses of the same have been budgeted.
Recommendation: Approve the proposed resolution.