Minot City Council discusses alcohol license cap removal proposals during public hearing

Minot City Council's recent meeting on May 5, 2025, sparked heated discussions surrounding proposed changes to liquor license regulations, with significant implications for local business owners. The council is considering four options, including the controversial removal of caps on liquor licenses, which has raised concerns among existing license holders.

One of the key speakers, a representative from the alcohol committee, emphasized the importance of balancing community interests with the rights of business owners. "When deciding the fate of an irresponsible license holder, is there a difference between revoking a privilege and taking away a property?" they asked, highlighting the need for a thoughtful approach to licensing that serves the larger community.

Tony Mueller, owner of Sports on Tap, voiced strong opposition to the proposed changes, arguing that they could undermine the value of existing licenses and lead to an oversaturation of bars in Minot. "I've never heard anybody say that Minot needs more bars," he stated, pointing out that the city had previously set a minimum price for new licenses at $100,000 just five years ago.

Jessica Klein, representing Marketplace Foods, outlined the four options under consideration. The first option is to maintain the current system, while the second proposes removing the cap and selling licenses at a lower price. The third option, proposed by Alderman Kevin Black, would allow new applicants to pay a hefty fee while granting current license holders a right of first refusal. The fourth option, suggested by Alderman Pittner, includes a $25,000 upfront payment to existing license holders in exchange for waiving renewal fees.

Klein noted that while her clients prefer to keep the caps, if changes are inevitable, Black's proposal appears to be the most balanced, maintaining market value while addressing the concerns of current license holders.

As the council deliberates these options, the outcome could reshape the landscape of Minot's nightlife and business environment. The discussions reflect a broader tension between fostering new business opportunities and protecting the investments of existing operators. The council is expected to continue evaluating these proposals in the coming weeks, with potential implications for the future of liquor licensing in the city.