20th Ward still witnessing alcohol-sales showdown

Another interesting piece from the South Side Journal -- 20th Ward Alderman Craig Schmid has budged a bit on his "Dry Ward" stance. Instead of the original 50 percent food-sales requirement in order to serve alcohol, he now supports a 35 percent rule.

A lot of the present controversy erupted when Steve Smith, owner of the popular Royale bar on Kingshighway, wished to open another bar--this time, no food to be served at all--on a stretch of Cherokee Street within the 20th Ward. Schmid's ordinance prohibited it, and he would not budge, much to the chagrin of the St. Louis community who a) likes to drink, b) likes to drink in interesting settings, and c) likes activity and believes "eyes on the street" will enliven and make the host block more safe.

Critics contended drunks import trash, noise, vandalism, and violence into a neighborhood that does not need any more of those things.

I think Schmid's heart is in the right place, but I also think it's time to let this area mature. Schmid hasn't updated his views on Cherokee Street since the 1980s, when its decline began. Today, Cherokee is a dynamic, but struggling district that needs investment like that which Steve Smith is willing to pour in. The new bill sponsored by Schmid is a start.

I do wonder what the actual neighborhood concensus is, however.

What are your thoughts?