More changes have been made to the city of Pembroke’s alcohol ordinance after some discussion and a decision by the City Council during Monday’s regular meeting at City Hall.
The council approved unanimously a second reading and adoption of the alcohol ordinance, which now allows the sale of alcohol between the hours of 11 a.m. and midnight with the stipulation that all beverages must be consumed by 12:30 a.m.
At its November meeting, the council approved a first reading to amend the ordinance to change purchase and consumption from 11 a.m. and 11 p.m. with the stipulation that all beverages must be consumed by midnight.
But Gareth Collins, owner of local restaurant and sports bar JB’s Lounge and Dine, addressed the council Monday and said he was concerned with the new times because the convenient store located next to his business could sell alcohol until midnight.
Though alcoholic beverages purchased at a convenience store cannot be consumed on premises, according to Pembroke Police Chief Mark Crowe, Collins said he felt it was unfair, and council member Angela Reed agreed.
“This isn’t apples and apples,” she said. “But I see what you’re saying.”

Read more in the Dec. 17 edition of the News.