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The Northfield City Council recently approved a change to local city ordinances that would allow breweries and taprooms to be opened in town.
The law would allow for Northfield to join the ranks of several local towns in the craft beer industry.
During the meeting, members voiced concern that local beer business was being lost to nearby towns. In additon to allowing for the entry into the craft brewery industry, tourism funds could be won from the opening of a brewery.
In addition to economic gains, the introduction of local breweries would provide immeasurable cultural benefits.
The motion won unanimous approval by the City Council.
“I’m going to enthusiastically support this,” Mayor Dana Graham told the Northfield News. “These types of brew pubs have a history of bringing development with them.”
While some potential brewers have already voiced plans to open up shop in the small town of Northfield, it remains to be seen whether the introduction of a local brewery will effect alcohol consumption habits on the campuses of Carleton College or St. Olaf College.