Retail Beverage Association discusses training, taxi program and advocacy with board

Representatives of the Retail Beverage Association updated the St. Mary's County Alcohol Beverage Board on Jan. 10 about monthly meetings, staff outreach and voluntary efforts to reduce impaired driving.

Association member Joel (surname not given) said the group meets the first Tuesday of each month and uses the meetings to informally consult with licensing and enforcement staff about compliance questions such as trade-name changes and license renewals. He said the association is exploring a taxi program to help patrons get home after drinking and encouraged licensees to attend association meetings for informal guidance.

Board members and staff noted the value of the association for educating smaller operators about paperwork and the board's rules. The board cautioned about quorum rules for staff attending association meetings (fewer than three board members recommended to avoid creating an inadvertent quorum) but welcomed continued dialogue and invited formal input on any proposed legislative changes.