Columbia Community Rallies to Save New Brookland Tavern Amid Tax Issues

Columbia Rallies to Support New Brookland Tavern

In the charming city of Columbia, the beloved New Brookland Tavern has become a focal point for music lovers and a hub for local artists. Recently, the rock club faced a tough situation that led to a temporary closure. On August 30, the venue had to shut its doors due to some significant tax issues that prevented it from renewing its alcohol and retail licenses. Naturally, it left many fans worried about the future of this cherished establishment.

Community Steps Up

However, Columbia’s vibrant community wasn’t about to let New Brookland disappear without a fight. In a heartwarming turn of events, the club quickly launched a GoFundMe page on Wednesday, hoping to raise $75,000 to tackle its mounting expenses. By the following afternoon, the support poured in, contributing over $18,000 to help the Tavern get back on its feet. Carlin Thompson, the club’s owner, shared the fantastic news that this generous initial contribution would allow them to make a down payment on their owed taxes and establish a payment plan.

Good News for Music Lovers

The quick action taken by the community indicates that New Brookland Tavern is back in business! With the funds raised, they can now apply for a retail license, which means the venue is gearing up to reopen its doors on Friday. This is particularly exciting as they have a show scheduled featuring touring country artist Logan Crosby, who has already seen nearly 300 tickets sold.

While the club will initially be operating without alcohol sales, Thompson remains optimistic and plans to move forward with all previously scheduled shows, much to the delight of local music fans.

A Community Asset

Thompson admitted feeling a bit strange about asking for help—especially since New Brookland had previously raised nearly $38,000 through a GoFundMe last fall to facilitate their move from West Columbia to the current location at 632 Harden St. in Five Points. Understanding that the Tavern means so much to many, he was transparent about their situation, outlining the tangible benefits for donors, such as receiving free shows for future contributions of varying amounts.

As the reality of the situation set in, Thompson faced tough decisions, even having to transfer two shows scheduled for earlier this week to Augusta, Georgia, due to the licensing hiccups. Just like many venues across the state, New Brookland is grappling with high insurance costs, which are amplified by regulations requiring businesses to carry at least $1 million in liability coverage.

Strategizing for Success

Thompson is committed to finding creative ways to generate revenue and reduce costs. Since they moved to the Five Points neighborhood in December, they’ve also tapped into the university scene by hosting rentals for sororities and fraternities. This strategy proved fruitful, with one night bringing in more revenue than four concerts combined.

Idealistic but practical suggestions are being considered, such as diversifying the food menu to attract customers not just there for the music. Additionally, Thompson mentioned the idea of installing TVs at the entrance to showcase what’s happening inside the venue, hoping it will draw in more walk-in traffic. Thankfully, even since relocating, the Tavern has noticed a positive increase in footfall.

The Heart of the Rock Scene

But let’s face it, for New Brookland Tavern, alcohol sales are a critical component of their success. Thompson expressed that having those permits back in place is key for the club to thrive, as that’s where they generate their main source of income.

More Than Just a Venue

Beyond financials, New Brookland represents something larger for Columbia’s music scene; it’s an inclusive space that welcomes all ages, giving young talents their first taste of performing. If larger concert companies were to take over, it could impose restrictions that would change the very culture and community spirit that New Brookland nurtures.

Cameron Powell, a musician who has been part of Columbia’s scene for over a decade, echoed these sentiments, saying that losing the Tavern would rob local bands of precious performance opportunities. “We just wouldn’t have our hometown rock club anymore,” he noted, highlighting the unique role it plays in the local music landscape.

With so much love and support from the community, it looks like New Brookland Tavern isn’t going anywhere just yet. It truly embodies the heart and soul of Columbia’s music scene, and we can’t wait to see the club open its doors once more!