A small scale First Amendment issue was settled at the Knoxville City Council meeting Monday night.
Alderman amended an ordinance that forbid businesses from advertising liquor prices.
The ordinance change originates from a complaint from a business owner who had previously been told to take a sign down that advertised alcohol prices.
City Clerk Charlie Gruner says now there are several businesses that display liquor prices either in windows or on poles.
Gruner says that set up a bit of a problem with the United States Constitution, limiting some businesses ability to advertise and not others.
“They could advertise the prices of their toys outside but the guy who serves beer can’t advertise his beer prices,” Gruner says.
All seven alderman presented voted in favor of eliminating the part of the ordinance that barred the price advertising.
Alderman also held discussion on offering Eiker Acres residents garbage collecting services from the city.
Eiker Acres residents had objected before that Knoxville would collect their garbage but not allow access to the city tree dump.
Alderman decided they would be in favor or granting access to the tree dump if cars show a wheel tax sticker to indicate their a Knoxville resident.
Last night council members also talked further about their new 457B employee retirement plan.
The plan will not take effect immediately but council was trying to figure out what the city’s contribution to employee retirement plans will be for FY17.
