An update was given for the Blue Light bar located in the entertainment district on Station Street. After the beer permit was revoked in November 2021 for six violations of the beer code just several months after the bar opened, the owner Brian Joyce appealed the decision. The case was heard by Chancellor Jeff Atherton in June 2022 and an agreement was reached in October 2022 between the city and Mr. Joyce. A written security plan by Sergeant Wood and Mr. Joyce was to be aimed at protecting the public.
But before two weeks ago, Mr. Joyce made no effort to meet with Sergeant Wood, the Beer Board was told. Since that time, there have been meetings between the officer and the owner and attorney of Blue Light to develop a code of conduct and security plan. These have been very positive meetings, said Sgt. Wood.
For the most part elements of the security plan are the same as in the Chattanooga Beer Ordinance, he said.
“I believe Mr. Joyce is trying to work with us now and not against us at this point,” said Sgt. Wood. Vince Butler, Vice Chairman of the board, asked for the process to be accelerated since it has dragged on for nearly two years.