City Council members said they plan to hold a session on the topic of event halls next Tuesday at the 3 p.m. agenda session.
Councilman Moses Freeman said there is a need to tighten up the city ordinance on the topic. Gary Ball of Ridgedale earlier told the council that some facilities have cover charges and give out alcohol. He said he is also told that they "border on nudie clubs."
He said three people have lost their lives in the clubs.
Councilman Jerry Mitchell wondered if a week's notice was enough time to notify all those interested in the topic. Council members said changes in the ordinance should not harm up-and-up event halls. Councilman Mitchell said there should be "fair treatment" in the changes.
Travis McDonough, the mayor's chief of staff, said the administration is working on a legislative package involving event halls and is seeking "to close some loopholes."
He said, "These businesses should not be any less safe than any other business."