Exeter council approves liquor-license transfer for Homestead restaurant, with conditions

Exeter Town Council approved a transfer of the liquor license for the Homestead restaurant after a public hearing and assurances from the applicant that outstanding administrative items would be resolved.

During the hearing the applicant’s attorney, Charlie Riley, addressed a late bill that had been filed with the council. “Members of the council, my name is Charlie Riley. I’m the attorney for the applicant,” Riley said, and indicated the applicant would satisfy the outstanding charge prior to closing. The council opened public comment, heard from the prospective licensee and supporters, and asked for clarification about arrears noted in a March 4 correspondence.

Council members approved the transfer with the stipulation that the outstanding advertising fee be paid and that the building inspector’s conditions be satisfied before the license is finalized. A motion to open the hearing, a motion to close it and a separate motion to issue the license passed by voice vote.

The council recorded no roll-call vote totals in the public discussion; the action was approved by voice. The council directed staff to confirm payment of the advertising fees and compliance with inspector requirements before administratively issuing the license.