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Arlington board advances liquor ordinance amid resident and business concerns
Summary
The board approved the first reading of Ordinance 2026-02 to update liquor licensing and certificate-of-compliance procedures; public commenters and aldermen raised concerns about adding licenses, a 1,500-foot distance rule and the 180-day state application window.
The Arlington Board of Mayor and Aldermen approved the first reading of Ordinance 2026-02 on Feb. 2, a rewrite of the town’s liquor regulations intended to clarify certification, retail requirements and coordination with state law.
Angela Reeder, administrative assistant, presented the draft ordinance, saying staff separated beer and liquor into distinct ordinances and recommended the changes to bring the town code into alignment with state requirements.
During the public comment period before the ordinance presentation, resident Gerald Turner said he supported adding another liquor store in town. "I would like to see another one in the market," Turner said.
Nick Vescovo, who said his family owns Arlington Liquors, urged caution. "I don't think it's time to add a liquor store," Vescovo said, adding that nationwide alcohol consumption is down and that the proposed 1,500-foot distance between stores is too close. He asked the board to provide a draft of the new ordinance before the public hearing next month.
At the dais, Mayor Mike Wissman cautioned that an upcoming state census could place Arlington's population above 16,000 before the ordinance takes effect. Town Attorney Gerald Lawson described the town’s certification and certificate-of-occupancy process for applicants and property owners, explaining the logic for application sequencing.
Alderman Jeff McKee asked when the 180-day clock to obtain a state license would begin; Lawson and Recorder/Treasurer Brittney Owens said it begins when the board approves an applicant’s certificate. Alderman Jeremy Biggs asked that the 1,500-foot distance be increased and raised concern about a single property being tied to more than one applicant; Owens explained that if an applicant fails to apply to the state in 180 days, the town may consider the next applicant on the reserve list.
Alderman Oscar Brooks moved and Alderman Larry Harmon seconded approval of the first reading; the motion carried unanimously.
The ordinance remains at first reading; staff said they will answer additional questions and present any requested clarifications before subsequent readings and public hearings.
