A heated discussion over alcohol sales variance took center stage at the Garland City Council meeting on June 3, 2025, as community members voiced concerns about the impact on local safety and youth.

The meeting featured a representative from a local gas station who defended their request for a variance to sell alcohol, highlighting their commitment to responsible sales and compliance with regulations. "We have been selling beer and wine for the last 12 plus years," he stated, emphasizing their adherence to safety protocols and training for staff. He noted that lowering gas prices had already benefited customers, suggesting a positive impact on the community.

However, the conversation quickly shifted as Lindsay Figleman, a local resident, raised significant concerns regarding the store's past alcohol sales. She pointed out that previous variances had been granted despite opposition from local authorities, including the school district. Figleman questioned the store's compliance with licensing regulations, revealing that the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission (TABC) had no record of a valid license for the store's alcohol sales. "We really don't know how this business was being able to sell beer and wine for 10 plus years," she remarked, calling into question the safety of allowing alcohol sales near schools and churches.

Figleman also criticized the notification process for the variance, noting that it only reached businesses and not nearby residents, which could leave community voices unheard. She urged the council to consider the health and safety of children in their decision-making, referencing the potential risks associated with alcohol sales in close proximity to schools and places of worship.

As the council deliberates on the variance request, the discussions underscore the ongoing tension between business interests and community safety, with residents advocating for a thorough examination of the implications of alcohol sales in their neighborhoods. The outcome of this meeting could set a precedent for future alcohol sales regulations in Garland, highlighting the delicate balance between commerce and community welfare.