The Amarillo City Council has taken a closely watched step toward changing zoning regulations for a local sports complex, voting to advance a proposal that would allow alcohol sales at a facility primarily known for hosting youth sports.
At its Tuesday meeting, the council voted 3–2 to approve a rezoning package affecting the property that houses the Amarillo Netplex, an indoor sports facility used for a range of youth and adult athletic programs. If the rezoning is fully approved, it would permit alcohol to be sold at the facility for consumption either on or off the premises. Mayor Cole Stanley and City Councilman Tim Reid voted against the proposal.
The Amarillo Netplex hosts tournaments, leagues, and special events throughout the year and has long been associated with youth athletics. Because of that focus, the rezoning request generated notable public discussion and disagreement. Several residents addressed the council to express concerns about the potential impact of alcohol sales in a setting frequented by children and families. Some opposition also centered on the facility’s proximity to a nearby daycare, which added to worries about safety and appropriateness.
Supporters of the rezoning, including representatives for the Netplex, emphasized that alcohol sales would not be present at every event. They explained that the proposed change is intended to provide flexibility for certain tournaments, adult leagues, or special events that may benefit from expanded food and beverage options. The facility already includes a Mexican restaurant on-site, which currently sells alcohol for on-premise consumption under existing regulations.
Under the approved rezoning package, the ability to sell alcohol would be tied to the property’s continued use as a sports facility. This condition is intended to prevent the zoning change from being used to support unrelated commercial activities in the future. City officials noted that the rezoning does not automatically require alcohol to be sold at all times, but rather creates an option that facility operators may choose to use depending on the nature of specific events.
The narrow 3–2 vote reflects the divided opinions surrounding the issue. Those who opposed the measure raised questions about whether allowing broader alcohol sales aligns with the community’s expectations for youth-centered spaces. Supporters countered that similar facilities in other cities have implemented alcohol policies without incident and that responsible management could address many of the concerns raised.
While the initial vote moves the proposal forward, the process is not yet complete. Councilmembers must still approve the rezoning ordinance on a second reading before it can take effect. That vote is expected to occur at the council’s next meeting. If approved, the change could alter how certain events are hosted at the Netplex while keeping its primary role as a sports facility intact.
As the ordinance moves toward final consideration, the discussion highlights ongoing tensions between economic flexibility for local venues and community expectations regarding youth-oriented spaces. The outcome of the next vote will determine whether the rezoning becomes official and how the Amarillo Netplex may operate in the future.
