The Rome Alcohol Control Commission has endorsed changes to the city’s downtown open container ordinance that would significantly expand when and where alcoholic beverages could be carried in public.
If approved by the Rome City Commission, the proposal would enlarge the designated open container district to include local hotels and allow the public consumption of alcoholic beverages seven days a week instead of the current three-day schedule.
Rome Downtown Development Director Suzanne Roberts told commission members the changes are intended to encourage visitors to spend more time exploring downtown shops, restaurants and entertainment venues while also providing greater flexibility for community events.
Roberts said downtown restaurant owners have expressed unanimous support for the proposal, adding that city officials have not seen an increase in alcohol-related crime, public intoxication or DUI cases since the ordinance was first implemented.
“City Strategic Initiatives Director Kelley Ledford described the proposed amendment as the next logical step in the city’s efforts to strengthen downtown economic activity. She said the expanded district would create consistency within the ordinance while allowing Rome to better accommodate future events and opportunities.
The recommendation was approved by the Alcohol Control Commission during its June 15 meeting.The proposal now heads to the Rome City Commission, where it is scheduled for its first reading on June 22. A final vote is expected on July 13.
