For nearly a year, DCist has been following the conflict developing in Shaw between proprietors of new restaurants and bars and neighborhood churches, which oppose the opening of new establishments that allow drinking. Area churches have relied, so far, upon a provision in the law which grandfathers existing liquor stores and taverns, but which does not allow new establishments, “within 400 feet of a public, private, or parochial primary, elementary, or high school; college or university; or recreation area operated by the D.C. Department of Recreation.”

Back in February, we reported that Vegetate, a Shaw restaurant, was attempting to circumvent the rule by experimenting with different measurements between itself and Seaton Elementary School and by lobbying Council-member Jack Evans (D-Ward 2) to push for an exemption. It seems, now, that Evans has gone one step further, introducing a bill in the D.C. Council that will change the law to potentially allow new restaurants and bars, though not new liquor stores, within the 400 foot perimeter. The measure is billed as an acknowledgment that in a developing city, new businesses will frequently appear near old institutions, and new schools may very well appear in old neighborhoods with active entertainment districts. For example, under the current law, a school that opened in Dupont Circle could prevent the opening of new bars there.

Tomorrow, at 10 a.m. in the Wilson Building, Council-member Jim Graham’s (D-Ward 1) Consumer and Regulatory Affairs Committee will be taking testimony on the proposed measure. A number of neighborhood organizations are asking residents to call or email members of the council or attend the actual hearing to express their support for Evans’ bill. You can visit In Shaw to see a list of council email addresses and a sample letter of support.