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Council extends late-night alcohol hours with a two-year review clause
Summary
The council approved an ordinance allowing eligible local retailers to sell alcohol until 2 a.m., inserting a two-year sunset/review clause so staff and first responders can assess community impacts before continuing the policy.
Commerce's City Council on Sept. 16 approved an ordinance extending allowable alcohol sales hours to 2 a.m. for eligible retailers, with a two-year sunset and review provision so staff and first responders can evaluate any adverse community impacts.
Why it matters: Extended alcohol service hours can affect public safety calls, downtown activity and late-night noise. The council previously signaled approval but asked for a periodic review; the current ordinance incorporates that request.
Details: City Manager Lisenby said the ordinance allows local establishments to serve alcohol until 2 a.m., up from the previous midnight cutoff, and requires a review every two years. He noted that currently only two entities occasionally use the extended hours and staff recommended approval with the requested two-year review clause to monitor outcomes and coordinate with first responders.
Outcome: On second reading the council unanimously approved the ordinance and directed staff to monitor impacts and report back prior to the sunset review date.
