Macon-Bibb Commission 9/5/23

Laws aimed at curbing crowds congregating in downtown Macon after bars close split commissioners along racial lines during the Sept. 5 meeting of the Macon-Bibb County Commission. Mayor Lester Miller proposed moving closing time from 3 a.m. to 2 a.m., enforcing food truck rules and prohibiting them from operating after 10 p.m. unless on private property, and requiring a permit for more than 10 people congregating on public right-of-ways between midnight and 6 a.m. The measures kicked off a spirited debate and accusations the changes would adversely affect African Americans. Commissioners also discussed the county's recent inability to secure minority contractors to bid on competitive projects. Here are highlights of the debate and actions taken on agenda items captures through social media posts during the meetings.