Federal Lawsuit Dismissed Over Brookhaven's Alcohol Ordinance

BROOKHAVEN, GA -- The battle over Brookhaven's booze laws seems to be over for now. On Thursday, a federal judge dismissed a lawsuit against Brookhaven over its alcohol ordinance, ending a dispute without any finding the city’s ordinances are unlawful or discriminatory.

Back in August 2018, the city amended its liquor law by removing the classifications of "dinner venue" and "entertainment venue" and added a "late-night establishment" classification. That brought a lawsuit from three nightclubs whose patronage comes mostly from black and Latino customers, who said the move was discriminatory.

Medusa Restaurant & Lounge, XS Restaurant and Lounge, and Josephine were reclassified because they had dance floors, stages and DJs playing music. The city also raised their liquor license fees.

Brookhaven filed its own counter lawsuit.

“This is a win for the residents of Brookhaven,” said City Attorney Chris Balch. “Our current ordinance remains intact and in force, enhancing safety in the area and preserving the quality of life for those who live here.”