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A 4 <br />mcmnaocrs <br />® •r:) "`ten i'P i!. <br />700 Virginia Avenue ,,, p <br />Ft. Pierce <br />. Florida �.,.� coy s C :•. 3 <br />33450 co o ..1 <br />.V <br />November 3, 1977 <br />Mr. William Wodtke, Chairman <br />Indian River County <br />Board of Commissioners <br />Indian River County Courthouse <br />Vero Beach, Florida 32960 <br />Dear Mr. Wodtke: <br />I recently noticed with interest articles in the newspaper <br />pertaining to extension of closing hours for cocktail lounges. <br />Due to prior committments, it appears that I will be out of <br />town at the time of the public hearing. Therefore, I am writing <br />this letter to express my feelings on the matter. <br />Three years ago, I accepted the chairmanship of the tourist <br />division for the Indian River/Vero Beach Chamber of Commerce. I <br />lecepted this position because my business interests depend <br />partially on this element of our economy. I was also greatly <br />concerned with the inevitable change in traffic patterns caused <br />by the I-95 extension and the increased deterioration of the South <br />Florida tourist industry. It was obvious that Vero r3each would <br />eventually be cut off from the direct traffic pattern of the <br />dwindling southbound tourist. Emphasis in our campaign was <br />directed at specific geographic areas and especially to encourage <br />convention business. The cost of such advertising campaigns <br />are extremely expensive in relation to the funds available in <br />our relatively small area. I feel it is the responsibility of <br />our local government to reasonably assist businessmen in their <br />efforts to attract and bring back tourists to this area. <br />The experience of the last several years has proven that a <br />diversification of the economy between agriculture, industry, <br />tourism and service oriented businesses is vital to the economy <br />of this county. <br />I think we will find that the additional hour requested will <br />lend itself towards providing adequate time for those who enjoy <br />LICENSEE OF McDONALD'S SYSTEM, INC. <br />this type.of social activity after the theater, movies or a <br />leisurely dinner. History has taught us that it is difficult <br />for government to legislate morality and I am sure that you <br />would agree that if an individual chooses to become intoxicated, <br />he will do so, regardless -of the closing hour restrictions. I <br />realize there will be many opposed to this change, but I also <br />realize that we are in competition with other tourist markets <br />in providing reasonable services to our visitors. I would <br />encourage you to grant the closing extension. <br />Sinc ly, <br />Robert F. Baltard <br />Treasure (;OaG L McDonald's <br />' � 1 <br />RFB/kj <br />NOV 171977 . f <br />Rm 32 PAG 146 <br />