TIFTON — An 800-acre farm and vineyard from Irwin County is looking to set up a sister location in Downtown Tifton.

The Tifton Downtown Development Authority, in a joint effort with Paulk Vineyards, submitted a rezoning application to the city council during its Sept. 3 meeting to request a conditional use permit for the development of a wine lounge and retail space in the city’s downtown area.

Abby McLaren, executive director of the development authority, explained that she and her staff had been collaborating with the Paulk family on this project, strongly believing it would raise the property value of the planned location, bring in a great deal of foot traffic, and create jobs for the city or even lead to potential new business springing up in its wake.

She asserted the owner would take great lengths to avoid serving underage customers, as they planned to card anyone that looked under 40, but that non-alcoholic juice would be offered to those who didn’t or couldn’t drink alcohol.

Loretta Hylton, planning and zoning administrator, reported that the city planning and zoning board had recommended approval of the proposal during their last meeting.

City council will further discuss the item at their next meeting later this month.