City council discusses petition route for liquor ordinance bypassing state legislature

Garland city officials are exploring new avenues to increase local revenue through a potential petition for a local option ordinance regarding bars. During a recent work session on July 7, 2025, council members discussed the possibility of bypassing state legislative hurdles by gathering community support for a petition, which could generate an estimated $500,000 in additional revenue for the city.

The council acknowledged that previous attempts to secure state assistance have not yielded results, prompting a shift in strategy. Council members expressed interest in hiring professional consultants to facilitate the petition process, which would require gathering signatures within a 60-day timeframe. This approach aims to expedite the establishment of local bar ordinances without waiting for legislative approval, which could take years.

Deputy Mayor Pro Tem Lug raised concerns about the implications of such a petition, particularly regarding zoning regulations for bars. While the current legislation allows for liquor stores, creating specific zones for bars would require further legislative action after the petition is approved. This has sparked a broader discussion among council members about the potential impact of bars in different neighborhoods, with some expressing enthusiasm for the idea while others voiced caution.

The council plans to defer the decision to one of its committees to gather more stakeholder input and assess the feasibility of hiring a consultant. This step will allow for a thorough examination of the costs and logistics involved in pursuing the petition option.

As the city navigates these discussions, the outcome could significantly shape Garland's local economy and community landscape, with officials committed to finding a viable path forward.