Monday, March 11, 2019

News 12 at 6 O'Clock

AUGUSTA, GA (WRDW/WAGT) -- Strip clubs could soon have to move out of downtown Augusta. When they do, they'll have to move to areas where they can't sell alcohol.

Commissioners are trying to change that with a new ordinance. Some leaders say that's why we haven't seen any new successful erotic dance spots for almost two decades.

If it seems like strip clubs can't stay out the news, it's true.

Commissioners are still trying to figure the best way to handle them right down to what's on the drink menu.

"They will have business, but they won't have as much business as one that provides alcohol,” Nathaniel Forth, who lives downtown, said.

In a heartfelt speech to city leaders, one man said that's the whole point -- to stop the clubs from being successful, one drink at a time.

“Visitors and citizens will drive by these community eyesores. Is this what you really want for Richmond County?" the presenter said to council.

For some, the answer is yes.

Commissioners voted two weeks ago to move forward with the changes. But, as we’ve seen before, push back from the community sometimes reverses everything.