Commission approves WatchFest temporary alcohol licenses and $70,000 outdoor screen lease

The Decatur City Commission approved temporary beer, wine and ready‑to‑drink alcoholic beverage licenses for the city’s planned Decatur WatchFest 2026 and authorized a $70,000 lease for two outdoor LED screens to show FIFA World Cup matches on the Decatur Square.

Sherry Jackman, tourism director, told the commission that the WatchFest license requests cover multiple date ranges in June and July 2026 to accommodate World Cup scheduling. Jackman said the city coordinated with the State Department of Revenue’s alcoholic license division and that the license submissions are a prelude to state approval. Commissioners moved, seconded and voted to approve the temporary licenses as presented.

On the outdoor screens, staff recommended leasing two 12 ft by 7 ft LED screens from Magnolia Displays after reviewing three vendor quotes. Staff said Magnolia’s hydraulic lift system offers mobility and safety advantages over a suspended rig, and the company offered protections for returning a deposit. The lease authorization — presented as a motion — passed by voice vote.

Commissioners discussed vendor selection, layout for screens on the Square and logistics including on‑site technicians; staff said one screen would be placed near the performance stage and another near MARTA Plaza to disperse crowds and improve sightlines. Staff also said the city had received multiple quotes and preferred Magnolia for operational and risk‑mitigation reasons.

Both actions were approved during the meeting; staff will finalize vendor contracts and state licensing steps as required.