City Council Votes to Remove Distance Restrictions on Liquor Stores in Fifth District

The Gallatin City Council meeting on August 27, 2025, focused on proposed changes to liquor store regulations in the Fifth District. The primary discussion revolved around the distance restrictions between liquor stores, with council members debating whether to maintain a one-mile limit or reduce it to half a mile.

Councilman Darius expressed support for allowing a liquor store in the Fifth District, noting the absence of existing stores. He indicated that the current regulations could create confusion and suggested that a half-mile distance might be manageable. However, concerns were raised about the potential impact of reducing the distance on future investments. An investor had indicated that a half-mile restriction could deter a planned $12 million liquor store project.

The council ultimately voted on a motion to change the distance requirement to half a mile, which passed with three votes in favor, two against, and two abstentions. Following this, another motion was introduced to remove all distance restrictions entirely. This motion also passed, with four votes in favor and one against, leading to plans for a resolution to amend the existing ordinance.

The discussions highlighted the balance between fostering business opportunities and managing community concerns regarding liquor sales. The council's decisions will likely influence the retail landscape in the Fifth District, particularly with the upcoming Nexus development expected to include various retail options. The council plans to prepare an ordinance reflecting these changes for the next meeting.