Members of the Saline Baptist Church attended the Somerset City Council meeting to express their concerns about the annexation request of a commercial property located next to their church. The property owner submitted an application to be annexed into the city, leading to worries that the property may house a retail establishment selling alcoholic beverages.
Somerset Mayor Alan Keck assured the congregation that the business planned for the property would not be a liquor store, but rather a convenience store with the possibility of gas pumps. However, the church members remained apprehensive about the potential sale of alcohol, especially given the church’s close proximity to the property and the fact that it hosts a school.
The congregation raised concerns about traffic, parking issues, and the impact of having an alcohol-based business near their church. Pastor Trevor Reynolds emphasized the importance of their church’s mission to counsel and help those struggling with substance abuse, and how the presence of an alcohol-selling business could be detrimental.
Despite these concerns, Keck explained that the property owner has the right to annex and develop the property in compliance with state and local laws. He also clarified that the city cannot impose restrictions on the sale of alcohol on the property through the annexation process.
Ultimately, the congregation and city officials will continue to discuss the potential impact of the annexation on the church and its community as the second reading and vote on the annexation request is scheduled for October 14. Discussions regarding the type of business that could operate on the property and potential limitations will continue in the coming weeks.
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