JACKSONVILLE, AL – The Jacksonville City Council unanimously approved two liquor licenses on November 10, 2025, but not before residents voiced concerns about the increasing number of bars in the city and related disturbances in the community.
Public Raises Concerns About Bar Proliferation
During the public hearing for Brothers Bar’s liquor license application, a resident expressed concerns about what they characterized as an increasing number of drinking establishments in Jacksonville. The resident requested increased police presence and support to manage disturbances caused by bar patrons, highlighting what some see as a growing issue in the community.
Despite the concerns raised during the public comment period, the council proceeded to unanimously approve the on-premises beer, wine, and liquor license for Denham Investments LLC, doing business as Brothers Bar, located at 206 Pelham Road South.
The resident’s comments underscored tensions between business development and quality-of-life concerns that some community members are experiencing as more alcohol-serving establishments open in Jacksonville.
Two Liquor Licenses Approved
In addition to Brothers Bar, the council also approved a liquor license for Lost Pizza Company. Strategic Development LLC received unanimous approval for an on-premises beer, wine, and liquor license for the establishment at 208 Mountain Street Northwest. This application proceeded without public opposition.
Both establishments went through the required public hearing process, with notices posted and nearby residents and businesses notified as required by city ordinance.
Major Insurance Decision Pending
Beyond the liquor license discussions, the council reviewed competing insurance proposals from AMIC and Travelers Insurance, with substantial cost differences at stake. Travelers submitted a bid approximately $49,000 lower than the current premium rate, with total annual savings reaching approximately $279,215 compared to AMIC’s proposal.
City Clerk Brenda Long presented key differences between the proposals during the work session. Travelers provides a dedicated contact person for claims processing and waives co-insurance requirements, benefits not offered in AMIC’s proposal. The council must make a decision by their first meeting in December, as the current policy expires December 16.
Holiday Staffing and Pay Reviewed
The council discussed additional holiday pay arrangements for Christmas and New Year’s, with estimated overtime costs of approximately $12,000. No immediate action was required during the meeting, though officials acknowledged the need for a decision on holiday scheduling.
Infrastructure and Community Updates
The council accepted recommendations from the street light committee to install street lights on existing poles along Chinabee Avenue Southeast. Mayor Mark Jones was authorized to sign the lighting services agreement with Alabama Power.
Personnel and Budget Matters
The council approved several personnel actions:
- Employment of Marvin Reese as SCP Laborer, Range 1, replacing Jessica Slaughter
- Acceptance of Jacob Haynes’ resignation as Laborer in Utility Maintenance, effective November 5
- Reappointment of Mary Ann Burnett to the Library Board with a term expiring December 2029
Budget amendments included allocation of $98,884 for construction of a pond pavilion at the Public Safety Complex, funds previously approved on July 14, 2025.
The council also authorized Mayor Jones to sign a service agreement with Christopher Millard James as Security Officer for Jacksonville Municipal Court and approved the First Amendment to Agreement with BFI Waste Services LLC, doing business as Republic Services of Anniston.
Holiday Events and Community Engagement
The closure of city offices for Veterans Day was announced, along with upcoming community events. The Christmas parade is scheduled for December 2, with council members discussing vehicle participation and trailer arrangements. Odie was designated to pull the parade trailer, with suggestions to decorate it and have a backup vehicle available in case of cold weather. Community participation was encouraged in a holiday farmers market, Christmas celebrations, and the holiday lights event.
2026 Meeting Schedule Established
The council reviewed and is expected to adopt the 2026 meeting schedule, with sessions planned for the second and fourth Mondays of each month at 6:00 p.m. The agenda deadline remains 10:00 a.m. on the Wednesday before each Monday meeting.
Executive Session
The meeting concluded with an executive session to discuss economic development matters under provisions of the Code of Alabama, Section 36-25A-7A7. No details of the closed session were made public.
The next Jacksonville City Council meeting is scheduled for Monday, November 23, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. at City Hall, 320 Church Avenue SE. The public is encouraged to attend.
