Syracuse to vote on mayor's role, beer licensing

It amends the city's beer licensing regulations by creating a license classification to allow beer consumption on licensed premises. The ordinance requires licensed premises to be located minimum distances from public buildings, parks, playgrounds, libraries, schools and churches. The ordinance also provides regulations for the issuances of such licenses regarding hours of service, permitted activities and applicant qualifications.

A flier supporting the referendum states, "Bring sit-down family restaurants to Syracuse city!" It implies voters will only have fast-food choices if they don't support the referendum.

A brochure in opposition to the referendum states, "Please join us in keeping alcohol sales a safer distance from our children. Voting no will maintain the 600-foot minimum distance for alcohol-vending establishments. Help keep our kids as safe as possible."

Some residents believe restaurants like Winger's , TGI Friday or Macaroni Grill likely won't come to Syracuse unless Referendum 2 passes.

Thurgood said that if the referendum doesn't pass, "it could have an adverse impact on revenue. It may even increase property taxes."

Thurgood said he doesn't drink, but approving the referendum could mean residents don't always have to travel out of town to eat out.

Melva Sine, president of the Utah Restaurant Association, speaking at a City Council meeting earlier this year, said restaurants have to buy all of their alcohol from the state liquor store and are not allowed to make money on alcohol sales.

• Syracuse city will have consolidated voting on Nov. 6. All residents will vote at a central location, the community center, 1912 W. 1900 South, east of City Hall.

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E-mail: lynn@desnews.com