The New Shoreham Town Council convened on November 14, 2024, to discuss several liquor license renewals and address community concerns regarding local establishments. A significant focus of the meeting was the renewal of licenses for various businesses, including Beachhead 2 LLC and Block Island Beach House, both of which faced scrutiny due to past police activity and cleanliness issues.
The council unanimously approved the renewal of the Class B liquor license for Beachhead 2 LLC, contingent upon the submission of outstanding documentation. This decision reflects the council's commitment to supporting local businesses while ensuring compliance with state regulations.
Block Island Beach House also received approval for its liquor license renewal, but not without discussion. Council members raised concerns about the number of police calls to the establishment over the summer, which included medical emergencies and noise complaints. The council emphasized the need for improved waste management in the outdoor consumption area, particularly after reports of littering and garbage accumulation. The establishment's management acknowledged the issue and committed to enhancing cleanliness and monitoring efforts.
The meeting also addressed the renewal of licenses for other local venues, including Captain Mix and Champlin's Hotel, with council members praising the management for improvements in noise control and community relations. However, some establishments, like Club Soda LLC, faced delays due to the absence of a lease agreement, prompting a motion to continue their application until the next meeting.
In addition to license renewals, the council discussed the importance of setting caps on beverage licenses to manage the growth of alcohol-serving establishments in the community. This conversation highlighted the need for a balanced approach to support local businesses while addressing community concerns about noise and public safety.
The meeting concluded with a commitment from council members to continue monitoring the impact of outdoor entertainment licenses and to refine application processes to better serve both businesses and residents. As the council moves forward, it aims to foster a vibrant local economy while ensuring that community standards are upheld.