Council appoints municipal judge as hearing examiner in pending alcohol‑license enforcement matter

Alpharetta City Council on July 28 adopted a resolution appointing Municipal Court Judge David C. Will as the hearing examiner for an administrative hearing related to an alcoholic beverage license at a downtown establishment. City staff said the appointment follows an independent audit by a contracted auditor (Frasier Dieter) of a downtown restaurant’s food‑to‑alcohol sales ratio. The audit and related code enforcement actions may lead to a noticed administrative hearing to determine whether the license remains valid under city code. Because the city clerk plays an investigatory or presenting role in the matter, the council adopted a resolution appointing an independent hearing officer so the clerk may participate in the evidentiary presentation. Assistant city staff said the hearing must be scheduled at least five days, but no more than 30 days after notice. The hearing examiner will make determinations on administrative violations; the business may appeal any adverse decision to the council as the appellate body under city code. Council approved Judge Will’s appointment unanimously; staff said Judge Will agreed to serve through Dec. 31, 2025.