The city council will mull over changes to the City Code that would allow drinking and possessing alcohol while on city property.

The ordinance would change city law to allow alcohol to be served and consumed on “various (city-owned) properties used by the public for public gatherings and special events, including weddings, fundraisers, receptions, and the like,” the ordinance said, adding alcohol may be served at these types of events.

Current law says any and all possession and use of alcohol is illegal on city property with exceptions to property managed by other institutions, like the Center for the Arts and Old Fort Golf Course.

“The City of Murfreesboro desires to act prudently and carefully regarding the possession and serving of alcohol on City property, but at the same time desires to make its property available to the citizens of Murfreesboro to enjoy and use responsibly, including such events that may involve the legitimate serving and consumption of alcohol,” the ordinance said.

Even with the proposed changes, it will still be illegal to drink on a public street or sidewalk in the city.

The council will consider the issue Thursday night on second reading. The issue passed in a unanimous at the Sept. 11 meeting with no discussion.

Public Hearings:

- The city council will conduct a public hearing to consider a zoning request [2008-412] for approximately 5.8 acres to be rezoned from L-I with BPD and GDO-1 Overlay Districts to PUD with BPD and GDO-1 Overlay Districts located along Medical Center Parkway; ZIP Properties, applicant.

- The city council will conduct a public hearing to consider a PUD amendment [2007-419] for approximately 101.79 acres located along Franklin Road; ParkTrust, developer. Super Speed Wash plans.

12. The city council will conduct a public hearing to consider a Zoning Ordinance amendment [2008-810] to Appendix A-Zoning, Section 24, pertaining to material board requirements for final design review.

Rezonings and annexations:

- On third and final reading, Ordinance 08-OZ-39 will amend a PRD for an area located west of Fortress Boulevard.

- On third and final reading, Ordinance 08-OA-40 will annex an area located along East Main Street.

Michelle Willard can be contacted at 615-869-0816 or mwillard@murfreesboropost.com.