CALL TO ORDER: The Prattville City Council met in public hearing on Tuesday, December 7, 2010 at 6:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers at City Hall. Council President Tom Miller called the meeting to order. Roll was called and all were recorded as being present.

AGENDA

1. RESOLUTION: TO GRANT A LOUNGE RETAIL LIQUOR, CLASS I LICENSE FOR BLUE IGUANA.

Mr. Chris Zinn, 518 Jasmine Trail, Prattville, AL 36066, appeared before the Council to state that the request of a license change is mandated by the State of Alabama Beverage Control Board (ABC). He stated that there will be no change in hours and the plan is to continue operating as they have for the last 7 years.

Councilman Wood expressed his concern over the number of police calls to the property address and commented that there may be a need for a change in plans. He stated that the main concern is for the health, welfare and safety of the citizens.

Mr. Zinn reminded members of the Council that anytime a call is placed to 911, it is common for the location of the problem to be stated as Bama Lanes parking lot regardless of the fact that there are several businesses located in the same parking lot. He also stated that this is the second time he has applied for the lounge license. His first attempt was denied 2 years ago and if he is denied for the second time, he may have to consider legal counsel.

Councilman Gillespie commended Mr. Zinn for making the bowling alley a non-smoking business.

Mr. Zinn stated that his plan for bringing his business up to code with the updated HVAC system is coming along.

Councilman Boles questioned if his plans for the new HVAC system would be similar to the set-up at Jose’s Cantina and Mr. Zinn answered “no.”

Councilman Wood reminded Mr. Zinn that he should be operating under the guidelines of a Restaurant Retail Liquor License, which is what he is currently licensed with.

Mr. Zinn stated that he is not truly a restaurant. The business is open until midnight, there is live music on occasion and no one under the age of 19 is permitted.

Again, Councilman Wood expressed his concern for the potential of increased police activity if a lounge license is approved.

Mr. Gene Hall, 206 Stewart Street, Prattville, Al 36067, appeared before the Council to report that patrons litter the parking lot with trash and beer bottles, there is poor lighting in the parking lot and there’s too much activity that goes on behind the bowling alley.

Councilman Wood asked Mr. Zinn if he has obtained legal representation regarding this issue and he stated that no one is with him tonight but that he does have legal representation.

2. RESOLUTION: TO GRANT A LOUNGE RETAIL LIQUOR, CLASS II PACKAGE STORE FOR AURO SWAMY, OWNER OF EAGLE HOLDING, LLC D/B/A BAMA RACKAGE STORE.

Mr. Auro Swamy, 110 Lakehaven Way, Prattville, AL 36066, appeared before the Council to urge support for his application. Mr. Swamy stated that his plan is to add the package store on to his existing business located at 2565-A Cobbs Ford Road. He also stated that he currently owns package stores in Millbrook and Letohatchee.

Councilman Fank asked for clarification that he would have a separate entrance, cash register, etc. for the package store. Mr. Swamy stated that law requires construction of the store be designed that way.

Councilman Wood reminded Mr. Swamy of other times the Council has denied his applications.

Mr. Steve Drinkard, Attorney for Mr. Swamy referred to a letter that he had sent to the Council using the term “congruent.” Mr. Drinkard stated that his point was that other businesses in the area of Mr. Swamy’s store currently serve alcohol on-premise.

Mr. Gene Hall, 206 Stewart Street, Prattville, Al 36067, appeared before the Council in opposition to the application request. He stated that if the Council approves this application, they open the doors for everyone else to apply.

Councilman Wood thanked Mr. Hall for speaking on the 2 public hearing items.

ADJOURN:

There being no further business to come before the Council, Councilman Argo made a motion to adjourn and Councilman Wood seconded the motion. The meeting closed at 6:36 p.m.

APPROVED:

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Gina P. Smith
City Clerk

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Thomas M. Miller, President
Prattville City Council