ANNISTON, AL – The Anniston City Council voted 3-2 on January 6, 2026, to implement a temporary six-month moratorium on new business licenses for bars and taverns, marking a significant shift in the city’s approach to regulating alcohol-serving establishments.
The moratorium, which takes effect immediately and runs through July 6, 2026, applies to establishments where alcohol sales for on-premises consumption exceed 50 percent of gross revenue. The measure passed with support from Mayor Ciara Smith and Council Members Moss and Harrington, while Council Members Downing and Tolson abstained from the vote.
Proactive Planning Approach
Mayor Smith emphasized that the moratorium represents a shift from reactive to proactive policymaking. “Historically, the city of Anniston has been very reactive dealing with our bars and our taverns locally,” Smith said during the work session. “I think this gives us an opportunity to create proactive measures, put them in place, and figure out exactly how we want to move forward.”
City Manager Ken Free recommended immediate action, expressing concern that delaying the decision could trigger a rush of new applications. The moratorium does not affect existing bars and taverns, which may continue operating and renewing licenses at their current locations. Special event licenses and restaurant alcohol licenses also remain unaffected.
The city currently has over 45 alcohol licenses issued citywide, including both restaurant and bar licenses. During the six-month period, city officials plan to review zoning ordinances and develop updated policies regarding the location, number, and concentration of alcohol-serving establishments.
Traffic Safety Initiatives
The council also addressed several traffic safety concerns during the work session. Council Member Downing requested evaluation of traffic calming measures for the first curve on Glade Road, an area that has experienced ongoing safety issues for six years.
Public Works Director David Arnett presented a comprehensive traffic safety plan estimated at approximately $6,000, including rumble strips, speed bumps, warning signage, and LED curve warning indicators. Arnett noted that a high-friction surface previously installed on the curve proved effective but has worn down, and no vendors in Alabama currently offer the specialized equipment needed for replacement.
The project will be funded through the Public Works project budget without requiring formal council budget amendment.
Council Member Moss proposed installing a three-way stop at Randall Drive and Ramon Avenue, citing dangerous speeding conditions on Ramon Avenue. Residents have reported using the road as an alternative to the accident-prone Highway 431, leading to increased traffic and safety concerns.
City officials identified additional safety needs for the area, including guardrails due to steep embankments and improved signage. City Manager Free agreed to provide cost estimates and recommendations at the next council meeting.
Other Business
In routine business, the council approved several consent agenda items, including:
- A $154.43 reimbursement to Shannon English of Municipal Court for continuing education expenses
- An updated credit card and travel policy
- A budget amendment accepting $5,925 in donated funds for Longleaf Botanical Gardens operations
- Resolutions addressing public nuisance abatements, including properties with grass, debris, vehicles, and burnt structures
Council Member Tolson raised drainage concerns for West 16th Street, where flooding has reportedly caused cars to float during heavy rains. City Manager Free agreed to research options and present findings at a future meeting.
The council also recognized the Anniston Fire Department for its response to a recent structure fire where first responders arrived within three minutes, saving two lives.
Chief Bowles’ retirement was acknowledged during the meeting, with his last day scheduled for January 8, 2026. City Manager Free will appoint a successor at his discretion.
An upcoming MLK breakfast on January 19 will feature Mayor Ashton Hall of Talladega, Alabama, as guest speaker. Council Member Tolson will host a Ward 2 informational meeting on Saturday, January 11, at 3 p.m. at Wiggins Community Center.
The moratorium and all approved measures are available for public review at www.annistonal.gov/city-council/city-ordinances.
