Power to veto nearby liquor licenses in Springfield no longer belongs to schools, churches, parks

Springfield City Code grants schools, parks, churches and places of worship veto power over liquor licenses within 200 feet.

That practice is technically unconstitutional and for years now liquor licenses have been presented to City Council so elected officials have the final word on approval or denial, according to City Attorney Frank Romines.

A new council bill would "clean up" City Code so it reflects that alcohol licenses are ultimately a council decision, Romines said.

It's part of an ongoing effort by the law department to update code provisions that are out-of-date or redundant, Romines said. The change is not in response to any specific request or complaint.

Read more: http://www.news-leader.com/story/news/local/ozarks/2017/11/19/power-veto-nearby-liquor-licenses-no-longer-belongs-schools-churches-parks/860477001/