PORTAGE, MI (WKZO AM/FM) – The Portage City Council had bad news for three local businessmen at their last meeting, and may have a little good news when they meet Tuesday.
The existing businesses applied for liquor licenses, paid their $850 fee and all got turned down.
The city only has one license available from city hall and they are keeping that in their back-pocket until a really “transformational” project comes along, like a hotel or major new construction with new jobs.
Mayor pro-tem Jim Pearson had this to say.
Council member Jihan Ain Young says these businessmen were told by the state that the city has licenses that they just give away, and that wasn’t clarified by city staff when they applied.
Mayor Patricia Randall thought it was a matter of fairness that they get a partial refund.
City Manager Jim McGinnis is recommending that the council approve a $350 refund for each of the three businesses.
New liquor licenses can be created by the state, based on census data, and are awarded to cities to recommend, with final approval by the Michigan Liquor Control Commission.
Businesses can buy a liquor license from a current holder, but it can cost tens of thousands of dollars.
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