Board denies Brunix Bait and Tackle off-premise liquor license after public opposition and background concerns

Denton, May 28, 2025 — The Caroline County Board of License Commissioners denied a new Class A (beer, wine and liquor) seven-day off-premise license for Brunix Bait and Tackle after a contested public hearing that included petitions submitted in opposition and a review of the applicant’s criminal-history reports.

Ira Rashad Nichols applied for the license for a proposed Brunix Bait and Tackle at 4006 Hayman Drive, Federalsburg. Staff presented a completeness checklist and noted outstanding items the applicant needed to file before final issuance: an advertisement fee ($162), environmental health approval and a food-permit copy (if applicable), alcohol-awareness certification, workers’ compensation certificate, Maryland sales-and-use tax license, state business registration, alcohol-and-tobacco tax registration (TTB), state fire marshal approval and a town occupancy permit.

The hearing drew multiple public speakers who said the community did not need another off-premise liquor outlet at that location. Desh Patel, who presented petitions signed by local residents and asked the board to accept them…