October 1, 2008 (Newnan, GA) — The Newnan-Coweta Chamber of Commerce issued a position statement stating that the Chamber SUPPORTS the passage of the seven-day alcohol sales as proposed in the November 2008 Special Referendum election.
The statement explains that the Chamber bases its support for the seven-day alcohol sales, on the Chamber’s core mission — to promote an environment in which Chamber members and the community can realize economic prosperity.
According to the Position Statement, “there are broad economic benefits that come with offering by-the-drink options to local diners, as evidenced by countless other cities around Atlanta and throughout the country. If seven-day sales are allowed:
- Newnan will be a more attractive location for many well-known, fine-dining restaurants. Currently, several well-known restaurants have chosen other locations instead of Newnan based on the alcohol ban.
- More of our existing restaurants will be open on Sundays. Many restaurants depend on moderate alcohol sales to help them ensure profitability on a day-to-day basis. Alcohol sales also provide for more consistent patronage on Sundays, allowing restaurant owners to better plan for attendant expenses and revenues.
- Tourism will increase. Currently, weekend tourists who are looking for places to visit on Sundays must choose other places in our area if they wish to enjoy an alcoholic beverage with their meal. Alcohol sales mean that tourists will spend more time (and money) in Newnan.
- Restaurant patrons will likely contribute more to Newnan’s retail economy. For tourists or for locals, going out for a Sunday meal often includes visits to retailers as well. Shopping and dining go hand in hand, and overall consumer spending increases.
- City tax revenues will increase. As sales at restaurants and retailers increase, so do city business tax revenues. That means more City services can be delivered without adding to the tax burden on individuals. “
The Position Statement also points out that, because the Special Referendum does not include package sales, it is “a measured way to support the positive economic impact of seven-day sales without encouraging negative impacts on our community.”
For more information or for a copy of the Chamber’s Position Statement, contact the Newnan-Coweta Chamber of Commerce at 770-253-2270 or email info@newnancowetachamber.org.
About the Newnan-Coweta Chamber of Commerce
With more than 700 members throughout Coweta County, the Newnan-Coweta Chamber of Commerce is an independent, nonprofit organization dedicated to increasing economic prosperity for all Coweta’s citizens. As the county’s largest business organization, the Chamber works to provide business leadership to foster an economic and cultural climate favorable to all business, in order to create a higher quality of life for all residents.
