PERRY -- Perry City Council decided against allowing package alcohol sales on Christmas Day and approved almost 50 alcohol licenses at its Tuesday meeting.

Lee Gilmour, city manager, said council considered allowing package sales on Christmas Day because the state legislature removed the restriction prohibiting it. Council members “just don’t think it’s appropriate,” he said.

After referendums on Sunday package sales passed throughout Houston County this year, Warner Robins, Perry, Centerville and Houston County passed ordinances reflecting the voters’ decision to allow Sunday sales. All kept a prohibition of Christmas Day. Houston County and Warner Robins officials said Tuesday their governments have not considered changing the Christmas Day omission.

“Most everyone is closed that day anyway,” said Tommy Stalnaker, county commission chairman.

Perry council also approved renewal of 47 alcohol licenses and two new licenses.

In other business, council unanimously voted to pay a $1,660 annual fee to upgrade the city’s timekeeping system to swipe fingerprints for the clock-in.

To contact writer Christina M. Wright, call 256-9685.