On Monday afternoon, the Cleveland City Council voted to pass an ordinance that would create a special new classification of beer license. This new license will allow the development of a “brewpub” in the downtown area.
A brewpub or brew house differs from a bar or growler store because the beverages sold are produced there and not shipped in. Customers can then try up to five one ounce samples on site before deciding what kind of beer they would like to purchase. Before the new ordinance was passed, there was no alcohol permit available that would allow this kind of sampling.
In the previous City Council meeting, Rob McGowan gave a presentation that explained his idea for a brewpub downtown. Mr. McGowan discussed how the production and consumption of craft beers has risen sharply in the last 24 years. He said that he wanted to create a brew house where people could come and sample a variety of these locally made beers. In the East Tennessee area alone, he said, there are at least seven successful brew houses, with three in Chattanooga. In Atlanta, there are more than 15.
Mr. McGowan also said that a brew house would bring more culture to the downtown area and enhance an already “artsy” section of Cleveland. He pointed out that a brew house would not only sell alcoholic beverages; locally produced sodas would be sold as well, so there would be something for everyone.
The motion to create the new classification passed 6-2. Title 8 Sections 8-210 and 8-214 will be amended.