Fulton County

Alcohol in the park? City considers expanding open container law

ROSWELL, Ga. — Roswell city leaders are considering expanding the city’s open container law to include its historic downtown square.

Councilman Mike Palermo told Channel 2’s Mike Petchenik he believes the square should be a destination for visitors.

“Roswell is rich with history and this is where it all started,” said Palermo.  “It’s going to encourage more restaurants wanting to open up right here and be able to be a part of this for people to enjoy.”

A similar measure failed to gain support in January after some city members expressed concern that allowing alcohol in the square, which is also a city park, would set a bad precedent.

“What we’re discussing is just in this park right here, allowing someone to take a glass of wine or a glass of beer and be able to walk through and just enjoy being at the park,” he said.

The city already allows open containers for visitors on Canton Street, a stretch of trendy restaurants, bars and art galleries in the heart of its downtown.

The owner of Roux on Canton, Zachary Bramblett, told Petchenik, that decision has been good for business.

“You’re not held to maybe waiting in line for one restaurant. You can get a drink and walk around and explore,” he said. “It’s helped broaden the entire street.”

Canton Street visitor Steve Haffner told Petchenik he supports the idea of expanding the open container zone.

“I like the fact that I can get up and take a drink I just spent…$10 for one, and carry it with me,” he said.

The city will hold a public hearing on the issue June 28th  from 6:00-7:30 p.m. at the Adult Recreation Center, located at 830 Grimes Bridge Road.  The council will vote on the proposal July 11th.