Kentucky Businesses Unite Against Proposed Alcohol Sale Limits

A recent proposal to change the way alcohol is sold in a section of Bardstown Road in Louisville, Kentucky, has sparked widespread concern among local business owners. The proposed change, which would limit liquor sales to restaurants that make at least 70% of their profits from food, has been met with fierce opposition from the Louisville Hospitality Association and numerous affected businesses.

According to Sean Vandevander, a spokesperson for the Louisville Hospitality Association, the proposed change would have devastating consequences for the community, including the loss of 500 jobs and the closure of 25 businesses. "We're asking them to retract their petition to put this on the ballot, knowing that it would put 500 people out of work, knowing that it would close 25 businesses, knowing that it would destroy this entire community," Vandevander said.

The proposal, which was submitted to the Jefferson County Clerk's Office last month, seeks to change the designation of three precincts - L170, L171, and L173 - from "wet" to "moist." This change would significantly impact businesses in the area, including longtime restaurant Jack Fry's, clubs Atomic and The Hub, and Neat Bourbon Bar. The proposed change has left many business owners worried about their future, with Jack Fry's owner Stephanie Meeks stating that she doesn't believe any of the affected businesses would be able to stay in operation if the proposal passes.

Neat Bourbon Bar owners Danie and Owen Powell were particularly affected by the news, with Owen Powell stating that it was "a lump in our throats, really." The couple has lost sleep over the proposal and is anxiously awaiting a resolution. Fortunately, a potential resolution is in the works, with Vandevander announcing that the Louisville Hospitality Association is in talks with the petitioners and hopes to reach a deal within the next 48 hours.

The Louisville Hospitality Association has also called on Mayor Craig Greenberg and Metro Councilman Ben Reno-Weber to help broker a deal. The association will host a town hall meeting on July 16 at The Hub, starting at 7 p.m., to discuss the proposal and potential solutions. As the situation unfolds, one thing is certain - the proposed change to alcohol sales in the area would have a significant impact on the community, and it is crucial that all parties involved work together to find a solution that benefits everyone.

The proposed change is not an isolated incident, as there have been similar attempts to restrict alcohol sales in the area in the past. However, the current proposal has sparked a sense of urgency among business owners, who are determined to protect their livelihoods and the community they serve. As the deadline for the proposal to make it onto the November ballot approaches, the Louisville Hospitality Association and affected businesses are working tirelessly to raise awareness about the issue and to find a resolution that works for everyone.