Board grants outdoor-smoking area extensions to two bars with limits

The Alcohol Beverage Board approved two modest extensions of licensed premises on Feb. 14 to allow outside areas for patrons to smoke adjacent to bar facilities.

Nut graf: The board approved small, fenced smoking areas for Monks Inn (concrete slab space adjacent to the building) and Saint James Pub (a 16-by-16 enclosed rear area). Both approvals were limited to the specific footprints described in applicants’ drawings and do not authorize additional on-site service beyond the licensed premises; applicants must still comply with health, occupancy or other agency requirements if usage changes.

Monks Inn Grill and Bar: Counsel and the owner described an existing 13-by-47 (transcript references 13x47 / 15x45 in filings) concrete slab directly adjacent to the bar with a full-glass door exit to the space. The board approved the premises extension for smokers consistent with the photo and drawing submitted; board members noted staff monitoring practices and that no additional on-site food or drink service beyond the licensed premises was requested.

Saint James Pub: The board approved a small fenced 16-by-16 smoking yard at the rear of the building; the applicant indicated a tent would be used for overhead protection. The board’s approval is limited to the described footprint and the board reiterated that any change affecting occupancy or service must be brought back for additional agency review.

Ending: Both approvals were granted by voice vote. The board emphasized that extensions are site-specific and that licensees must continue to meet all county agency requirements (health, fire and occupancy) should usage evolve.