Jonesboro, AR – (JonesboroRightNow.com) – July 27, 2024 – A longtime opponent to the growth of outlets for consumption of alcohol in Jonesboro has challenged the Downtown Jonesboro Alliance (DJA) to debate the merits of creating an Entertainment District.
Bob Hester, who identifies himself as “state director of the American Family Coalition” has sent an e-mail to DJA requesting “a public debate regarding the merits of this situation.” Hester’s e-mail to DJA Executive Director Sarah Doss began with how he is “deeply concerned about the push to create a(n) “entertainment district” in the immediate downtown area where people can drink alcohol from an open container while walking the streets.’
Entertainment districts in Arkansas are allowed under Arkansas Act 812 of 2019 by the Arkansas Legislature which allows cities to establish either temporary or permanent districts in which patrons of bars and restaurants serving liquor can possess alcoholic beverages outside of those businesses.
An ordinance that would create the Entertainment District was presented to the Jonesboro City Council Public Safety Commitee on June 18, 2024. Doss told committee members “We firmly believe that this will greatly benefit our downtown economy and boost our foot traffic as well as positively impact our downtown events.” The committee referred the ordinance to the full City Council on a 5-1 vote. (For referring the ordinance to full council: McClain, Moore, Emison, Gibson, Bryant. Against referring the ordinance to full council: Porter. Chairman Johnson did not vote.)
Downtown Entertainment District headed to vote – Jonesboro Right Now
Lengthy discussions at City Council – Jonesboro Right Now
The ordinance has had its first and second readings before the full City Council (July 2 and July 16). It is scheduled for third and final reading and vote at the next Council meeting Tuesday, August 6.
JRN asked Doss whether or not DJA will accept Hester’s request to debate the proposal. JRN has not yet received a response.