Closing time controversy in Jupiter

JUPITER, Fla. - Last call could be as much as two hours earlier for Jupiter bars if a proposal moves its way through town council

Many bar owners aren't happy.

On Tuesday, they met with town officials hoping to hash out a compromise.

Vicki Greist owns Jumby Bay and Island Grill in Abacoa.

She was one of 13 bar owners at a meeting with town officials.

Under 1 of 3 proposals, Abacoa and Jupiter Inlet bars would stop serving alcohol at 2 a.m. on weekends and 1 a.m. during the week.

The current closing time for all days is 3 a.m.

Greist said, "It's not going to solve the problems and in this economy it's just going to be possibly forcing some businesses to close."

Another proposal stops all town of Jupiter sales at 2 a.m., possibly affecting Uncle Micks Bar and Grill owner Kenny Martinson. "We'd really be up against it. The Town of Jupiter is not backing us up as I feel at the moment but after this meeting today I think everything has come to light."

Bar owners want more information from the town that supports the proposals.

In a July town meeting, Jupiter officials said there were increased police calls to businesses after midnight.

A tighter police budget was another reason for the proposal.

Another meeting with business owners is set for September 13th at Jupiter town hall at 11 a.m.