The county’s sole such venue opened in Shannon early last week, despite strong objections from residents who mobilized pickets at the Ga. 53 site Saturday.

“That’s what this does,” Garner said. “It can be applied to a business already open because Georgia allows an amortization period — a period in which an existing business can recoup its investment.”

Entice investors would get two years to recover their costs if they cannot comply with the new ordinance, he said, although some provisions — such as a ban on private rooms — would apply within 90 days of adoption.

Charles Craton, owner of the property occupied by Entice, said he does not believe the retroactive provision will hold up to a court challenge, but he supports a county ordinance.