Commissioners Table Proposed Amendments to Alcohol Ordinance

By JACK BAGLEY
At their last regular meeting for 2025, the Meriwether County Commission voted to table amendments to the county’s alcohol ordinance.
During a public hearing for discussion on the changes, which were read out by County Clerk Allyson Stephens, some ambiguities were noted in reference to the suspension of alcohol licenses. One item concerned altercations at places that sell alcohol which involve patrons and employees and which, under the currently revised amendment, could result in the licensee having the alcohol license suspended for 30 days pending possible revocation.
Commissioner Gene King said he could see a scenario where such an incident involving people with no connection to the business would cause the business to lose its license. Stephens said the wording was subject to change or review by the Commissioners, and the intent in this case was regarding the failure of the licensee or owner to act on the altercation taking place. King said the owner’s business should not be jeopardized because someone came to the business and caused an altercation.
Following further discussion, Chairman Adam Worley moved to table the amendments until the January 12 meeting to allow staff to provide a cleaner revision to the sections of the amendments discussed by the Commissioners.
In other business, the Meriwether County Commission:
• Approved a revised quote of $240,226.60 for two-way radio equipment and site services at Greenville PSC with Dean’s Commercial Two-Way;
• Approved a tower attachment lease agreement between Public Service Towers, Inc., and the county pending PSC approval and legal review;
• Tabled to January 12 a telecommunications agreement between AT&T and the county for fiber connectivity which would provide internet and telephone service to 911, pending further review;
• Approved a memorandum of understanding with Community Action for Improvement to allow the organization the temporary use of county facilities to administer the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program;
• Approved setting qualifying fees for local candidates in the 2026 Meriwether County elections;
• Approved an authorization to release the maintenance/warranty road bond for Chambliss Village at Hunter Welch Parkway, Phase II;
• Approved the temporary closure of County Line Road for bridge repairs; and
• Approved renewal of Workman’s Compensation insurance with March-McClendon, pending review of possible premium increases.
The next regular meeting of the Meriwether County Commission will be their first of the new year, at 6:00 p.m. on Monday, January 12.