The business approached the city about creating an entertainment district after learning that it could not renew a state exemption allowing people to bring their own wine and beer. The Nash chose its location several years ago to be convenient for students and in the heart of a cultural district but was in and open before realizing the liquor-license conflict, Goldenthal said.

He plans to apply for a license to serve wine and beer. Serving alcohol is an amenity that will help The Nash attract a wider audience, he said.

There is an expectation among a certain number of people attending a jazz club that there will be alcohol, said Goldenthal, adding, Theres no question that its important to the success of our business.

Downtown leaders foresee future challenges without the exemptions provided by the district, Mackay said. Buildings in the warehouse district, for instance, share walls with churches. In some cases, churches are moving into downtown buildings.

The city will consider licenses on a case-by-case basis through the standard process, Mackay said. Liquor store licenses will remain restricted near the churches.

Businesses will also need a city exemption in addition to the state license, she said. Businesses will be able to apply for the exemptions as soon as mid-July, depending on the results of a 30-day objection period.

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