•June 29, 2016•

A couple of requests for changes in liquor licenses led to a review of sale hours and license availability at the Sullivan City Council meeting June 27.

Mayor Ann Short opened discussion with a request from Sullivan IGA to add package liquor to the beer and wine license they already have.

IGA manager Pat Stinson made the request based on increased sales the store has experienced during the tourist season.

“If we can offer a full service liquor department, we will have a better chance drawing those tax dollars to Sullivan,” Stinson began.

He pointed out that existing beer and wine sales increase from 2.5 percent to 4 percent of store sales during the tourist season.

“By being a one stop shop, customers going to the lake on weekends will be more likely to stop here on their way,” he concluded, thanking the council for their consideration.

Mayor Short also pointed out the recently adopted changes in liquor sale hours by the county board could be a point of review for the city.

“I don’t drink, and I don’t buy liquor, but I believe we have to be open to helping our businesses,” Mayor Short said, explaining earlier Sunday liquor sales could also improve the flow of tourism dollars.

In April the Moultrie County Board approved liquor sales hours to begin at 6 a.m. Sunday mornings in locations outside municipalities. Those new hours took affect upon license renewals at the June meeting.

At that point Stinson was asked whether a 9 a.m. selling time on Sunday, rather than noon might also improve sales to those traveling to the lake.

“We don’t get many alcohol sales requests before then, but that would help,” he replied.

Commissioners Mike Kirk questioned whether sale times would include taverns, and Mike Mossman noted that if IGA was allowed the change, others may follow.

Mayor Short agreed to have the liquor ordinance reviewed to reflect the changes discussed with a more specific proposal ready by the July meeting.