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Committee refers proposed ordinance on geographic limits for alcohol licenses after members raise concerns about draft and bias
Summary
ALRC members discussed a proposed amendment to Madison General Ordinance 38.05 to allow geographic limitations on Class A licenses. The sponsor asked for more time and staff said a redraft is likely; the committee referred the item to the June meeting per the sponsor's request.
Committee members discussed proposed changes to Madison General Ordinance 38.05 that would allow geographic limitations on Class A (off-sale) alcohol licenses and recommended referral for further redrafting and review.
Why it matters: The proposal, if enacted, would authorize geographic limitations on license applications for the purpose of regulating license density. Alders and community members cautioned the committee to examine fairness and avoid statutory bias toward specific neighborhoods.
What the meeting record shows The item appeared on the consent agenda and staff noted the sponsor requested a later return date so the sponsor could incorporate new materials, including an external “place of last drink” study. Assistant City Attorney Jennifer Zillavy told the committee the version previously reviewed would likely be redrafted before it returned. Alder Carter expressed concern about the ordinance’s design, saying the earlier version seemed biased toward certain neighborhoods and she was worried about the sponsor’s motive.
Action Because the sponsor requested more time and staff anticipated a redraft, the committee recommended referring item 14 to the June 18, 2025 ALRC meeting for further review. Staff clarified that the Common Council can still consider an item even if the committee does not recommend it.
Ending The committee did not take final action on the ordinance; the record reflects the sponsor’s request for delay and staff’s expectation of a redraft before reconsideration by the ALRC.
