High Springs Approves Controversial Alcohol Ordinance

HIGH SPRINGS – The High Springs City Commission addressed several significant agenda items during their meeting on June 13, 2024, with Ordinance 2024-03 taking center stage. The ordinance, which concerns alcohol sales, has been a topic of extensive discussion in prior meetings and was passed on second reading with a vote of 3-1. Commissioner Wayne Bloodsworth cast the sole vote against the measure. Bloodsworth also opposed the measure at an earlier City Commission meeting.

Ordinance 2024-03 allows businesses that derive less than 51 percent of their revenue from the sale of food and non-alcoholic beverages to apply for special permits to operate outside the hours established in the City’s original alcohol ordinance. The Special Permit Process enables business owners to petition the City Commission to operate outside the hours described in Paragraph (d) of the original ordinance, which prohibits businesses from operating on Sundays to sell alcohol unless they also sell food.

The ordinance change was largely driven by local support for the High Springs Brewing Company and Prohibition Pizza, both family-friendly establishments. At the May 9, 2024, City Commission meeting, approximately 15 people spoke in favor of allowing the Brewing Company to open on Sundays, while four audience members opposed the approval. However, the new ordinance will apply to any business meeting its specifications, allowing them to petition for permits as well.

Under the new ordinance, businesses must adhere to specific requirements and restrictions to obtain a Special Permit. They must provide proof of food service or have food trucks on premises during the scheduled event. Special Permits must be applied for in connection with a special event, such as a City-sponsored event or Federal Holiday, and are subject to administrative approval. If a Special Permit is not connected to a special event, it requires City Commission approval and cannot be issued for a period exceeding 48 hours.

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