Politics & Government
Marietta's Temporary Open Container Law Made Permanent, Time Restrictions Removed
Marietta City Council voted to turn the temporary downtown open container district, first implemented last November, into a permanent one.
MARIETTA, GA — The city of Marietta's temporary open container ordinance within its entertainment district was made permanent last week, and the time and date restrictions on the ordinance were eased, thanks to a Marietta City Council vote.
Effective last Thursday, downtown Marietta visitors can walk around with a cocktail, beer or glass of wine any time of the day, according to the new law. Previously, hours of consumption were limited to Thursdays from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m., Fridays from 5 p.m. to 11 p.m. and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 11 p.m.
The drink has to be 12 ounces or less, bought from a licensed establishment in the city's Entertainment District and contained in clear plastic cups. While drinks are allowed any time of the day, customers can obviously only buy them during times when restaurants and bars are allowed to sell alcohol.
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Council members voted unanimously to approve the ordinance's permanence and the time/date restriction changes at the meeting Nov. 10.
Councilman Joseph R. Goldstein abstained from the vote because he, members of his family and/or entities owned by him and/or members of his family own property in downtown Marietta and know people/entities that have supported the open container district.
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The entertainment district was first created last November, according to city documents, and the open container law to go with it was set to expire after a year. City Council members decided to make it permanent instead of voting to renew each year.
The entertainment district extends north to Polk Street, west to Marietta Parkway and south to South Marietta Parkway. Excluding one block that extends to Waddell Street, the district's eastern boundary is Atlanta Street/East Park Square/Cherokee Street; however, the district excludes Glover Park.
Marietta Police Maj. Steve Kish told council last month that the open container law and entertainment district have not led to an increase in crime, the Marietta Daily Journal reported.
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