WEIRTON — Weirton Council is sending its proposal for a “brunch bill” to the state’s Municipal Home Rule Board for its consideration, following Monday’s regular council meeting.

The second reading of Ordinance 2057 was passed by a 5-0 vote, with Councilmembers Michael Adams, Fred Marsh, George Ash, Enzo Fracasso and Terry Weigel in attendance.

The ordinance authorizes a submission to the West Virginia Municipal Home Rule Board of an amendment to the city’s home rule plan, allowing the sale and service of alcoholic beverages, beginning at 10 a.m. on Sundays, by Alcohol Beverage Control Administration Class A license holders in the city.

Ash asked if city staff had determined whether limited video lottery establishments could be included under the proposed law.

City Clerk DeeAnn Pulliam said the license stipulations of an LVL operation would make that determination.

“It will all depend on whether they’re Class A holders,” Pulliam said.

City Attorney Vince Gurrera noted legislation currently is before state lawmakers in Charleston which would provide a “brunch bill” law statewide, but encouraged council to continue with its plans in the event action is not completed.

“It’s on a fast track in the West Virginia Legislature,” he said.

Prior to Monday’s meeting, council held a public hearing, taking comment from six area residents and business owners on the issue.

Of those six, resident Blaise Hogan was the only person to comment against the proposal, asking a letter to the editor he had written, which was published in The Weirton Daily Times Jan. 20, be included in the public record and with the application to the state.

“I grew up in the 50s when we had blue laws where no one was open,” Hogan said, adding, as years have gone on, many of those laws have bee eliminated. He said he feels that has contributed to societal issues of today. “We’ve rationalized it for what appeared to be good reasons.”

Emily “Birdie” Rose spoke on behalf of Spicy Gringo’s restaurant, saying she believes enacting a “brunch bill” will provide new opportunities for business, and attract new businesses to the area.

Rich Ryan, of Peppebroni’s Pizza, also spoke in favor.

“I believe it’s great for the community and better for business,” Ryan said, noting Morgantown, where Peppebroni’s started, already has enacted such provisions. “The future looks bright.”

Dewey Guida, owner of Dee-Jay’s BBQ Ribs and Grille, said Weirton has taken several steps to grow its economy in recent years, and he believes this is one more which will contribute.

“I think Weirton is really on the move,” Guida said. “We need to stay progressive.”

Weirton Area Chamber of Commerce President Brenda Mull noted earlier service of alcohol on Sundays already is available in Pennsylvania and Ohio, putting the Northern Panhandle at a disadvantage.

“I think it’s important to be able to offer what other states are offering,” Mull said.

Dan Greathouse, executive director of the Top of West Virginia Convention and Visitors Bureau, stated the CVB board and its membership also favor the measure.

The ordinance must be approved by the state Home Rule Board in order for the city to enact the proposal.

(Howell can be contacted at chowell@weirtondailytimes.com, and followed via Twitter @CHowellWDT)