Council approves variance allowing tabletop/arcade venue to serve beer and cider near church; vote 6-1

The North Richland Hills City Council voted 6-1 on March 3 to approve Ordinance No. 3899, granting a variance from distance restrictions so a proposed tabletop- and arcade-style business called The Man Machine at 8415 Davis Boulevard may serve beer and canned cider on the premises.

Applicants Chris and Matt Schoonover described the business as a veteran-owned tabletop-game store with an arcade in the rear separated by a partition wall. The applicants said alcohol service would be limited to beer and canned cider behind the partition, all staff would follow TABC carding requirements, and the venue would not sell liquor or wine.

Planning staff noted the location is roughly 99 feet from a church entrance and that the city and state alcohol codes allow variance requests from the 300-foot distance requirement. Councilmember Blake and others expressed support; Councilmember Vaughn argued the state distance rule is outdated in some contexts but supported the motion. Councilmember Compton said the presentation could have framed the youth-access issues differently given the mention of incentives for students.

Council approved Ordinance 3899 on a 6-1 vote. Motion to approve ordinance 3899 was moved by Councilmember Vaughn and seconded by Councilmember Dupree. Vote record in the public roll-call was six in favor, one opposed.