By Karen Middleton
The city of Athens has set a public hearing for Nov. 23 on a request by Walmart for zoning approval to sell alcohol at its store at 1011 U.S. 72 East.
Walmart had once before applied for a permit to sell alcohol, but withdrew the request in 2006, according to a store official.
Walmart spokesman Glen Wilkins said Tuesday that the chain tries to offer alcohol for sale at as many locations as local laws allow.
“I’m surprised they didn’t apply for [a permit] when we went wet,” said Mayor Dan Williams.
Alcohol sales have been legal in Athens since 2004.
“We did it for the greater convenience of our customers,” said Wilkins from his Georgia office. “It’s all part of our one-stop shopping.”
Wilkins said store employees reported to the corporate office that they had frequent requests for alcohol sales.
“We’ve had a lot of customers ask about it,” said Wilkins. “They say, I’m buying meat and chips here and now I need to buy a six-pack or a bottle of wine for supper. It is for their convenience so they won’t have to drive elsewhere.”
Wilkins said he is not sure why the chain, based in Bentonville, Ark., withdrew its application in 2006.
The hearing will be held at 5:30 p.m. in City Council chambers in the Municipal Police building at 951 E. Hobbs St.
