The Town Council held a show-cause-style review on Dec. 15 for NGA Inc., doing business as Saigon Hot Pot (6900 Post Road), after town staff found required renewal materials missing from the renewal packet, most notably a certificate of good standing from the Division of Taxation.

Solicitor and clerk described the standard renewal checklist: diagram of premises, signed rules and regulations, list of stockholders, departmental review sheet signed by police/planning/water/fire as applicable, Department of Health certificate, alcohol-server training certifications, menu, and $1,000,000 liability insurance naming the town as certificate holder. Staff reported receipt of a retail sales tax permit and a license-fee check during the meeting but said the certificate of good standing from taxation had not been completed as of that morning.

The applicant's counsel said proprietor Mister Nguyen is a first-year small-business operator who became overwhelmed by administrative filings. Counsel said the Division of Taxation account was established on Dec. 12 and that a password/passcode mailed by tax authorities was expected within a few business days; the firm asked the council to continue the hearing for one month to allow time for the tax clearance to arrive.

Town staff recommended suspension pending receipt of the certificate, or conditional issuance upon receipt. The solicitor said suspension with the condition that the certificate be provided was an appropriate remedy but councilors favored conditional issuance. Councilor Kim moved to issue the license upon receipt of the Division of Taxation certificate of good standing and to prohibit any alcohol service until the license is formally issued; the motion carried by voice vote. Council members encouraged the applicant to continue working with the clerk and tax authorities and offered assistance where possible.

Councilors acknowledged the timing sensitivity for a hospitality business in the holiday season but emphasized that the town must follow the same renewal rules for all licensees.