Plymouth Town Council considers liquor license change for Sandy Pond store

The Plymouth Select Board convened on June 3, 2025, at 6 PM for a public hearing regarding an application for a change of liquor license category for New Camp Corp, which operates as the Store at Sandy Pond. The meeting took place at Plymouth Town Hall, where the board considered the request to transition from a wine and malt package store to an all-alcohol package store.

The hearing opened with a presentation from Matthew Porter, the attorney representing New Camp Corp, alongside the company's principals, Paresh and Pareen Patel. Porter explained that the change was prompted by customer demand for a wider range of alcoholic products, particularly vodka-based items, which the current license does not permit. He noted that the store had received over 300 signatures from local residents supporting the application, highlighting a public need for additional product offerings in the area.

Porter emphasized that the store, originally intended to serve the campground, has evolved to cater to the broader community due to recent developments and an increase in local population. He assured the board that the store's operations would remain largely unchanged, continuing to offer convenience items and deli services while expanding its alcohol selection.

Following the presentation, the board welcomed comments from the public. Steve Lyden, a resident of Precinct 17, spoke in favor of the application, praising the store's courteous service and lack of license violations. He expressed the community's need for a local option for alcohol purchases, given the distance to the nearest competitor.

The board did not receive any opposition to the application during the hearing. After concluding public comments, the board members had no further questions for the applicant or supporters.

The meeting underscored the community's support for the proposed change, reflecting a growing demand for convenience in local retail offerings. The Select Board will likely deliberate on the application in a future session, with the potential for a decision that could enhance local business operations and meet community needs.