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Editorial - September 2002 |
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County prepares for new adult businesses September 27, 2002 - Probably the most often-cited reason voters approved alcoholic beverages in the county was that such beverages are available just about everywhere else, including the city of Lincolnton. Sales of beer and wine also help attract upscale hotels and restaurants to the area and make local grocery chains and convenience stores more competitive with the goods they can sell. Voters were not interested in attracting sleazy bars, topless dancing or adult book stores. But unfortunately, alcoholic beverages often go hand-in-hand with such establishments. That’s why Lincoln County Commissioners are taking the right steps to put new regulations into effect that would put restrictions on such activities. The new rules approved Monday night say that nightclubs must be located at least 200 feet away from churches, schools, day care centers, public parks or residentially zoned property. Nightclubs must be at least 150 feet from any other nightclubs. The rules for adult establishments are more restrictive, forcing businesses such as adult bookstores and theaters, topless bars and strip clubs to set up shop no less than 500 feet from churches, schools, day care centers, parks or residential areas. There must be a 1,000-foot buffer between two adult establishments. The ordinance amendments were approved Monday, and commissioners will vote on more restrictive rules at their Oct. 7 meeting. We don’t know if there will be any adult entertainment nightspots locating in Lincoln County and doubt such operations would find a receptive clientele in our area. But under the law, such business may operate under established guidelines. If they do come, we should be ready. We would hope the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office will monitor any new night clubs or adult business to make sure they are operating in a lawful manner. Critics of the alcohol sales measure repeatedly pointed out the problems that could come with alcohol. To a large extent, new zoning regulations and good law enforcement can address such problems. Lincoln County appears to be ready for that task.
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© 2001 Lincoln Times-News |
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