On Wednesday, May 4, Murfreesboro residents will have their chance to support the local craft beverage industry.
The Mid State Brew Crew’s Art Whitaker invites members of the community to the City Council Chambers that day at 6 p.m. to a public hearing regarding a new Zoning Ordinance for alcohol manufacturing. Art and several other members of the community have been working on a proposal for some time with the Murfreesboro Planning Department to make changes to current zoning for alcohol production.
“Many of you may already be aware of this,” Art says. “For those that are not, here's the short version: Right now; breweries, wineries, distilleries, cideries, meaderies, etc. can only operate in Industrial zones within the city of Murfreesboro. This new ordinance would open up opportunities for craft beverage producers to open under additional zoning classifications to allow them to set up shop in different and more exposed parts of town.”
Anyone wanting, say, a future cidery downtown or a brewpub closer to their neighborhood are advised to attend.
Art says, “The hearing this coming week is open for public comment and you are invited to come speak in favor of it. Literally, "I support this new ordinance" is enough. Or, feel free to prepare a lengthier statement detailing why you do. I assume there is a time limit. Whatever nuance or shape your support looks like is good enough. The tax revenue benefit, agricultural benefit, local business development, or whatever you think, are all good reasons.”
The Murfreesboro Planning Commission public hearing is at 6:00 PM on May 4, 2022 in the Council Chambers in City Hall, 111 W. Vine Street, Murfreesboro, Tennessee.
