GAINESVILLE, Fla. (WCJB) – Gainesville’s open container rules are narrowing after city commissioners voted to repeal the current open container ordinance in another split vote.

The decision repeals a pandemic-era ordinance allowing open containers of alcohol on city streets. This was their final reading and Gainesville police officials believe this is the safest thing to do for residents.

Commissioners Bryan Eastman, Casey Willits and Reina Saco voted against the repeal. Those three commissioners voted the same way back in August.

RELATED: Gainesville commissioners take step towards banning open containers in split decision

Gainesville police officials say people drinking in public parking lots can be dangerous and lead to violence.

“That’s been problematic for us because they’re going in different neighborhoods and different locations and gatherings,” shared chief of Gainesville Police Department, Lonnie Scott. “Sometimes it gets to the point where it escalates to a serious gathering and it sometimes gets violent.”

Some neighborhoods near downtown Gainesville are experiencing this firsthand.

“I understand the businesses down there and some of their wants and desires but we have to think on a larger scale as far as the safety for the community as a whole,” shared Scott.

The decision will return Gainesville’s open container law back to the same restrictions from before the COVID-19 pandemic. The rules were initially changed during the pandemic to help downtown businesses survive.

City officials have also been voting to create a downtown entertainment district where open containers would be allowed.

The new open container ordinance will begin January 1st, 2024.

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