Lyons City Council Proposes Open Container District
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During the regular meeting of the Lyons City Council on Tuesday, August 5, the Council completed the first reading of an ordinance update that would create an open-container district in Downtown Lyons.
This creation comes from a revision to the city’s Alcohol Beverage Licensing ordinance and would allow patrons to stroll along sidewalks with alcoholic beverages at permitted hours – during Lyons Main Street Association events and from 4 p.m. until 10 p.m. on Thursdays and Fridays, and 12:30 p.m. until 11 p.m. on Sundays. The district is proposed to begin at the easternmost edge of the Lanier Street rightof- way, and continue west until the westward edge of the Washington Street right-of-way; it is planned to also begin at the southernmost edge of the Broad Street right-of-way and continue until the northernmost edge of the alley between the Columbia Avenue and Broad Street right-of-ways.
If the ordinance update is passed, all open containers must be shatterproof containers and cannot have more than 16 ounces of a beverage. Those participating in open containers are not to use them while in the street or landscaping, and should never drive while drinking.
The second reading of this ordinance and official vote on its enactment will be completed at next month’s council meeting, which is slated for 6 p.m. in the Lyons City Council chambers on Tuesday, September 2.
Action Items The Council accepted the Local Maintenance and Improvement Grant (LMIG) project bid from McLendon Enterprises, who will charge $182,949 to repave several city streets. This cost will not be funded through the city, as it is a part of a statewide grant.
A stop and shop alcohol license, which permits businesses to sell beer and wine, was issued to the convenience store located at 161 S. State Street.
Council members agreed to table the issuance of a setback variance at 450 S. Washington Street. This variance was requested by property owner Avery “Ike” Cyree, who stated he desired the variance to help in the construction of a new building on the property. Councilman Ivy Toole requested that the Council table the motion until he could go see the site, as it was in his district.
The decision to select a contractor for the city’s sanitation services was also tabled, as Councilwoman Cathy Benton suggested that the Council continue discussing the matter.
These items are slated to be voted on during a special called meeting on Tuesday, August 12.
Citizens Comments
Citizen Earl Browning requested the City’s help in cleaning out a ditch near the back of his property so that he could have better run-off drainage. Mayor Willis NeSmith Jr. explained to Browning that the City did not work on private property but would review the situation to see if there is anything that they could do.
Next Meeting
The Council’s next meeting will be Tuesday, September, 2.
