07/10/1936
Two Aldermen Suggest Saloons Observe State Law
TRADE LOSS FEARED
City Attorney Studies Request Of Robey for 1 A. M. Curfew Rule
Aldermen W. E. Casteel and O. J. Allen said today they believed the state law governing the closing of bars and other places where liquor is sold should be observed in El Paso.
The state law specifies that, closing hours shall be from, midnight to 7 a, m. on week days and from midnight Saturday until 7 a.m. Monday.
Police Chief L T. Robey yesterday asked the City Council to pass an ordinance requiring places where liquor is sold to close from 1 a.m. to 7 a.m. daily.
At present bars and places where liquor is sold in El Paso have no closing hours on week days but close from 4 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sunday through an agreement of operators.
Bar Owners Doubtful
Chief Robey's request was referred to City Atty. J. Walker Morrow for study.
Liquor dealers indicated that they have no objection to closing according
to the state law. Some expressed a belief that early closing would drive some of their trade to Juarez, especially on Saturday nights.
Alderman Casteel said he has given the subject little consideration, but that he believed police should enforce the state law.
Not a Patron
"I haven't been in one of the bars since they opened, but any regulations to keep them orderly should be observed," Mr. Casteel said.
"I don't know just how they are controlled now. I understand that they Sheriff was keeping them regulated."
Mr. Allen said complaints have been received from hotel men in the downtown, district that noise from bars and cabarets annoyed their guests.
"I believe the state law would remedy the problem If It was properly enforced,” he said. "I think police should apply it by all means.
Plenty of Time
"Any one who drinks should: be able to get enough between the hours of 7 a.m. and midnight."
Alderman Don Thompson said he would consider the matter when he returns from a vacation trip.
Chief Robey requested that an ordinance banning music in bars, cafes and dance halls between the hours of 1 a. m. and 7 a. m. be passed.
City officials pointed out that an almost forgotten ordinance bars music in public places between the hours of 9 p. m. and 8 a. m.
Comments