Smyrna Board approves alcohol license changes for Prohibition Liquor and Kroger

In the heart of Smyrna, Georgia, the License and Variance Board convened on January 8, 2025, to address crucial matters impacting local businesses and community standards. The meeting, led by Andrea Worthy, the Director of Economic Development, brought together key city officials, including Beau Jones, Director of Water, Sewer, and Utilities, and Eric Randall, Director of Public Works.

The agenda featured several license change requests, beginning with a pivotal application from Randy Earl Banks, the new owner of Prohibition Liquor and Wine. Banks, who has spent two years training under the previous owner, expressed his commitment to compliance with city and state regulations. He detailed his proactive approach to preventing underage sales, including rigorous employee training and plans to implement a point-of-sale system capable of detecting fake IDs. The board unanimously approved his request for a liquor license, underscoring the importance of responsible alcohol sales in the community.

Next, Steven Aldridge, a store leader at Kroger, presented his application for a similar license change. With 15 years of experience, Aldridge emphasized Kroger's strict policy of checking IDs for all customers purchasing alcohol, regardless of age. He outlined the comprehensive training program for employees, which includes annual refreshers on state laws and company policies. The board also approved Aldridge's request unanimously, reflecting confidence in Kroger's commitment to responsible retail practices.

The meeting continued with Kinjal Patel, owner of Johnny's Pizza, seeking a license for beer and wine pouring. Patel, who operates multiple restaurants, highlighted his extensive involvement in daily operations and the training protocols in place for his staff. He assured the board that all employees are required to verify IDs and that they conduct regular training sessions to address any compliance issues. The board's approval of Patel's application further demonstrated the city's support for local businesses that prioritize responsible service.

As the meeting concluded, the board's unanimous decisions echoed a shared commitment to maintaining community standards while fostering a supportive environment for local businesses. The discussions not only highlighted the importance of compliance in alcohol sales but also reflected the city's dedication to ensuring that its establishments operate within the law, safeguarding the well-being of Smyrna's residents.