Minot City Council committee explores removing liquor license cap amid business concerns

Minot City Council is moving forward with potential changes to its liquor licensing regulations, following a recent committee discussion that explored the removal of caps on bar and nightclub licenses. The committee, formed at the council's direction, engaged in extensive dialogue about the implications of such changes, ultimately presenting options to eliminate the existing cap.

Council member Paul Pinner addressed concerns raised during the meeting, clarifying that there was no specific motivation behind the proposal to remove the cap. He emphasized that the discussions stemmed from a desire to foster a competitive business environment rather than personal interests. Pinner, who has faced accusations of self-interest, stated he would not hold a liquor license himself, reinforcing his commitment to the community's best interests.

The committee's rationale for considering the removal of the cap includes a belief in free market principles, suggesting that competition would benefit consumers through improved service and pricing. Pinner noted that the stagnant population in Minot should not dictate business operations, arguing that market demand should guide the number of establishments.

Concerns about an oversaturation of bars were addressed, with Pinner referencing experiences from other communities, such as Grand Forks, which saw no significant influx of new bars after lifting their cap. He reassured attendees that the committee had considered the potential need for increased police presence and had implemented mandatory server training and compliance checks to mitigate risks associated with bar operations.

As the council prepares for public input on the proposed ordinance changes, the focus remains on balancing business growth with community safety and interests. The outcome of these discussions could reshape Minot's nightlife landscape, reflecting a broader trend towards deregulation and market-driven solutions.