The High Springs City Commission discussed potential updates to the city's ordinance that prevents on-premises alcohol sales within 500 feet of a church, with commissioners asking staff for options that balance downtown redevelopment and deference to faith communities.

Commissioner White flagged several businesses that do not meet the 500-foot setback and asked staff for a path that would allow some restaurants or breweries to serve beer and wine. Planning staff member Danielle reviewed approaches used by other Florida municipalities, citing Titusville's carve-outs: a signed church waiver, exemptions inside a community redevelopment area, licensing for breweries and restaurants that derive at least 51% of revenue from food sales (referencing Florida statute chapter 509 as cited in the meeting), and temporary permits for nonprofit events. Danielle told the commission she could return with draft ordinance language tailored for High Springs and pronounced Titusville the most straightforward model for the commission's goals.

Commissioner White said she wanted "to give more deference to the faith-based community" and asked for procedures that would let churches drive some decisions while not unduly blocking downtown businesses. Danielle clarified how the city measures the 500-foot distance: "door to door as the entrance door" and "as the crow flies." Commissioners discussed the special case of leased church space, with suggestion that owning the building could carry more weight in any waiver process.

No formal action or vote was taken. Staff will provide copies of the Titusville and Orlando ordinance language and return with proposed text and options for notice and carve-outs at a future meeting. Commissioners asked staff to consider: a notice requirement to churches within the 500-foot radius, a waiver process, treating breweries and restaurants differently (e.g., limiting allowed beverages to malt beverages and fortified wine), and whether exceptions should apply inside a downtown or CRA area.