Commissioners approve special-event liquor permits and 61 license renewals amid comptroller holds on some establishments

Kent County commissioners on April 15 approved several special-event alcohol permits and moved to accept 61 alcoholic beverage license renewals while noting lingering issues with the state comptroller and a small number of license applicants.

The board held the public hearing required for three special class C (per diem) beer-only applications: Dogwood Festival of Galena (May 2025) and two Eastern Shore Rabbit Rescue and Education Center Incorporated events (May 10 and September 6, 2025). No members of the public spoke for or against the applications and the board approved the permits by voice vote.

Inspector Bonnie Pearsall of Kent County Alcohol and Tobacco Enforcement reported that 61 licensees submitted renewal applications and met basic requirements for board consideration. She said two establishments had not submitted renewal paperwork as of the meeting, two previously approved locations had outstanding contingencies that remain unfulfilled, and seven establishments were on hold with the comptroller's office. Pearsall recommended approval of the 61 renewals while noting the comptroller holds and that the board may add contingencies at its discretion.

A motion to approve the 61 renewal applications passed by voice vote. Commissioners discussed a possible letter to the Maryland Comptroller's Office about processing delays; staff said they had postponed a formal letter after learning the comptroller's office showed movement on some cases but agreed to revisit the option if the issues are not resolved next week.

Separately, the board noted issuance of two new Class B beer, wine and liquor licenses with catering privileges (prorated fees paid and license numbers issued on April 9) that will be recorded in the county's monthly report.