Sunday, Feb. 26, 2023–11:33 a.m.

-David Crowder, WRGA News-

a “Small Bar” category of liquor pouring license is set for first reading during Monday’s Rome City Commission meeting.

The ordinance would eliminate the 50-50 food-to-drink ratio for liquor sales with some restrictions for certain small establishments. This will be the second the ordinance will go to the city commission. In January, it failed by one vote.

There has been one change since then to address one of the concerns raised during the last city commission meeting.

“That is a recommendation that the liquor pouring license fee be reduced somewhat from the fee that is paid by the normal liquor pouring establishment,” said Rome City Clerk Joe Smith. “For an establishment that is smaller in size and closes earlier, the recommendation is a lower base fee.”

Second reading and a vote is slated for the commission’s first meeting in March.

Commissioners will also consider variances for the 50-50 food-to-drink ratio for Steel N Spirits and Combat Market on Broad Street.

Opioid settlement documents on Monday’s agenda

A resolution regarding the latest national opioid settlements is also back on the agenda for the Rome City Commission.

The State of Georgia is participating in the settlements with Teva, Allergan, CVS, Walgreens, and Walmart.

Paperwork must be submitted on or before April 18, 2023, in order for the City of Rome to be considered for initial participation calculations and payment eligibility.

The resolution was tabled during the city commission’s last meeting but is back before the commission Monday.

Also on the agenda is a special presentation for Black History Month.

The meeting begins at 6:30 p.m. at Rome City Hall. The caucus starts at 5 p.m.