Questions arise over license changes

By Staff
Leada Gore, Hartselle Enquirer
Questions about how to handle fund-raising events by some non-profit organizations are holding up passage of revisions to Hartselle’s business license ordinance.
The revision is part of a statewide effort to create more uniform business licenses. As part of the changes, the city is revising its list of categories required to purchase the licenses.
The changes will go into effect Jan. 1, 2008 and the ordinance must be passed before the end of the year.
The hold-up centers on what non-profit organizations would be required to purchase a license. The new ordinance would require a special events license of $100 a day or $300 a week for entertainment events such as wrestling, rodeos, mixed-martial arts, concerts or shows that charge admission. It specifies that religious, charitable or education organizations would not be required to purchase a license.
The questions arose over events such as those conducted by the Chamber of Commerce, park and recreation teams or non-school sponsored clubs, such as Les Amies, that holds the annual beauty walk.
City Attorney Larry Madison said the city can include such events but new wording will have to be added. Those questions prompted the council to delay passing the ordinance.
While questions on special events remain, other changes met with council agreement.
The new ordinance will require owners of more than one rental property to purchase a business license. Rental property owners will pay anywhere from $100 to $225 for the license. Apartment complexes will also be required to purchase a license.
The ordinance will also require a $5 issuance fee for all licenses.
Hartselle’s business license ordinance has not been changed since the 1970s. Once the ordinance is approved by the council, it will appear as a legal notice in the Enquirer.