The future of the former Pretoria Fields Brewing facility in downtown Albany is set to be determined during a city commission meeting scheduled for January 2024. The Albany City Commission faces a crucial decision on whether to proceed with a bid from Socius Beer Collective or to consider other options for the property, which has been closed since late 2024 due to a foreclosure by the primary lender.
As of now, the acquisition process for the brewery is nearing completion. Albany City Manager Terrell Jacobs indicated that the city expects to finalize the deal with Southwest Georgia Farm Credit shortly. The city aims to secure full control of the property, which would allow the commission to make informed decisions moving forward.
Proposal from Socius Beer Collective
Earlier this year, the city sought proposals from interested parties to reopen the brewery and taproom. Of the submissions received, only Socius Beer Collective, based in Lawrenceville, has presented a detailed plan. John Reynolds, COO of Socius, pitched the concept to commissioners in July, emphasizing the importance of integrating a food service component to attract a broader customer base.
Reynolds proposed replacing the existing 30-gallon brew tanks with smaller ones, allowing for a more localized brewing process. His strategy includes shipping beer made at other locations to Albany while also producing some beer locally, focusing on a community-centered approach rather than large-scale distribution.
Commissioner Chad Warbington expressed his support for accepting Socius’s proposal, stating that it represents a fair opportunity and would facilitate a quick reopening of the brewery. If the city commissions vote in January, Warbington believes the brewery could be operational by March 2024. He cautioned, however, that delays and uncertainty could deter Socius from pursuing the project.
Challenges and Community Impact
Mayor Bo Dorough has voiced his commitment to considering Socius’s proposal, recognizing the challenges faced by the previous operation, which he attributes in part to the COVID-19 pandemic. The original brewery was not only a local business but also a hub for community activities, including a monthly market and themed events like trivia and Bingo nights.
Securing the first position on the foreclosed loans is critical for the city, as it invested approximately $1.2 million in construction and brewing equipment. Dorough emphasized the necessity of resolving ownership issues before soliciting proposals, arguing that potential investors may have been hesitant to engage without clarity on the city’s control over the property.
As the Albany City Commission prepares for its January meeting, the decision regarding the future of Pretoria Fields Brewing holds significant implications for the local community and economy. The outcome could restore a vibrant gathering place downtown or lead to further delays in revitalizing the area.
