HASTINGS, Fla. – A dispute over whether Main Street Pizza in Hastings can serve beer and wine is headed for a final decision before the St. Johns County Commission next week.
Main Street Pizza was serving alcohol in February after receiving a variance from the county’s Planning and Zoning Agency, but First Baptist Church of Hastings appealed that decision, arguing the approval should not stand under a decades-old county ordinance that restricts alcohol sales near churches.
Under the ordinance, businesses generally cannot sell alcohol within 1,000 feet of a church. Main Street Pizza was granted special permission after county officials determined it met requirements for a variance.
Owner Matt Glass said he is trying to grow and expand downtown Hastings.
“We’re not trying to build a bar. We’re not doing alcohol, liquor service — simple beer and wine with your meal,” Glass said.
The church across the street is at the center of the appeal and is expected to present its case to county commissioners Tuesday, alongside the restaurant.
Church member Pete Boykin said the church’s concerns focus on quality of life and safety.
“The main motivation, I think, is noise this close to our church and the safety of our children,” Boykin said.
The church kept its cards fairly close on what they are going to be sharing at Tuesday’s County Commission meeting but said they do not want alcohol served next door.
“Essentially in our parking lot,” Boykin said.
The case is being closely watched in Hastings, a community experiencing growth and redevelopment, including in its downtown core. As new businesses move in, the proximity of many commercial buildings to churches has become a practical hurdle for owners seeking alcohol permits.
Business owner Jenn Ashton hopes to open a café downtown, near a church, and also serve alcohol.
She met with us while standing in support of Glass and Main Street Pizza.
Glass said he believes many residents want the option available locally and that the outcome could influence other businesses.
“If you’re here, you know, at the window talking to our customers, they’re pretty upset that there’s an opposition to this because they want this available in their community,” he said.
The St. Johns County Planning and Zoning Agency previously voted 4-3 in favor of allowing Main Street Pizza to serve alcohol. That decision is now under appeal, and the review is scheduled as the first two agenda items at Tuesday’s county commission meeting.