Tuesday, August 13, 2024–11:00 a.m.

-David Crowder, WRGA News-

The Rome City Commission has approved a variance request for a new cigar bar downtown.

The variance will allow Elevation Cigar House on Fifth Avenue to use the sale of tobacco products to count toward the 50-50 food-to-drink ratio.

The variance is similar to the one granted years ago for Old Havana on Broad Street.

“When we approved the first variance 20 years ago, I’m not sure that it was the right thing to use something other than food and our food drink,” said Rome City Commissioner Jamie Doss. “But we did approve it, and we haven’t had any problems from the business. However, I do think to continue approving these variances, is my opinion, is not good government.”

The third variance in effect is for Combat Market on Broad Street which is allowed to count firearms sales toward its radio.

The commission tabled a proposed small bar ordinance that would permit establishments under 1,200 feet to sell liquor without having to sell food with some restrictions. The ordinance would have also eliminated the need for variances. It now heads back to the Rome Alcohol Control Commission for further study.