Community demands action against liquor store proliferation

During a recent city council meeting, concerns were raised regarding the proliferation of liquor stores in the Cedar Grove area, particularly at potential new locations on 70th Street at Fairfield and 7th Street at Henderson. Community members expressed a strong consensus against the establishment of additional liquor stores, citing an already saturated market.

Bernie Woods, a local business owner who operates two liquor stores, echoed these sentiments, stating, \"There are enough liquor stores in this town.\" He highlighted the rapid increase in liquor store openings since a moratorium was lifted, questioning how new establishments were approved without community awareness. Woods pointed out that the market is becoming oversaturated, which could threaten the viability of smaller, independent liquor stores.

In response to these concerns, city officials discussed the existing liquor store ordinance, which includes spacing requirements intended to limit the number of liquor stores in close proximity to each other and to sensitive locations like schools and churches. According to city representative Mr. Clark, since the ordinance was adopted, 10 out of 12 liquor store applications have been denied, indicating a successful effort to control the number of new establishments.

However, council members acknowledged the community's perception of an excess of liquor stores, particularly small box retailers, which they believe contribute to loitering and crime. Councilwoman Bowman emphasized the need to listen to constituents, suggesting that while the city supports businesses, the current situation requires reevaluation to address community concerns effectively.

The council plans to review the ordinance further to determine if additional measures are necessary to manage the number of liquor stores and their impact on local neighborhoods.