Published Thursday, October 02, 2008

Chamber supports Sunday alcohol by drink

The Times-Herald

The Newnan-Coweta Chamber of Commerce has come out in support of Newnan's referendum on Sunday alchohol sales in restaurants.

Chamber Chairman Phil Aaron said that over the past few months, the Chamber board has been involved in a "strategic dialogue" regarding the issue of seven-day alcohol sales.

"After much discussion, debate, research and member input, the board prepared a position statement," Aaron said.

The Chamber released its official position to its membership just prior to informing the media.

"This is a pivotal time in the history of our country and our community," said Aaron. "We encourage you to educate yourself on the issues and take the time to vote."

The statement says that the Newnan-Coweta Chamber of Commerce "supports the passage of the seven-day alcohol sales special referendum."

The Chamber bases its support on the Chamber's core mission -- "to promote an environment in which Chamber members and the community can realize economic prosperity." The referendum, if passed by voters, will allow by-the-drink alcohol sales at restaurants and hotels on Sundays for on-premises consumption only.

"There are broad economic benefits that come with offering by-the-drink options to local diners, as evidenced by countless other cities around Atlanta and throughout the country," the Chamber board said.

According to the Chamber, if seven-day sales are allowed:

* "Newnan will be a more attractive location for many well-known, fine-dining restaurants. Currently, several well-known restaurants have chosen other locations instead of Newnan based on the alcohol ban.

* "More of our existing restaurants will be open on Sundays. Many restaurants depend on moderate alcohol sales to help them ensure profitability on a day-to-day basis. Alcohol sales also provide for more consistent patronage on Sundays, allowing restaurant owners to better plan for attendant expenses and revenues.

* "Tourism will increase. Currently, weekend tourists who are looking for places to visit on Sundays must choose other places in our area if they wish to enjoy an alcoholic beverage with their meal. Alcohol sales mean that tourists will spend more time (and money) in Newnan.

* "Restaurant patrons will likely contribute more to Newnan's retail economy. For tourists or for locals, going out for a Sunday meal often includes visits to retailers as well. Shopping and dining go hand in hand, and overall consumer spending increases.

* "City tax revenues will increase. As sales at restaurants and retailers increase, so do city business tax revenues. That means more City services can be delivered without adding to the tax burden on individuals."

The referendum does not include package sales of any sort, the Chamber board points out.

"Rather, the referendum only allows for by-the-drink, seven-day alcohol sales at restaurants or hotels where by at least 55 percent of the receipts of the business comes from the sale of food," the Chamber board said.

The Chamber believes that this approach is "a measured way to support the positive economic impact of seven-day sales without encouraging negative impacts on our community."

The Chamber recognizes that not all of its members, as individual citizens, support seven-day alcohol sales.

"However, the Chamber supports the Special Referendum on seven-day alcohol sales solely for its potential to provide a positive economic benefit for its members and for our community as a whole," the Chamber board said.