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Council authorizes manager to transmit revised liquor‑license letter after staff update
Summary
After a presentation from the director of public services and legal clarification from the city attorney, the council voted to authorize the city manager to transmit a revised draft letter on annual liquor‑license renewals to the Board of License Commissioners.
The council on March 3 approved a motion authorizing the city manager to transmit a revised draft city letter regarding the annual liquor‑license renewals (item 26‑G‑23) to the Prince George’s County Board of License Commissioners.
Director of Public Services Jatinder Kocher updated the council on the renewals, saying five additional businesses have come into compliance with permitting requirements and that re‑inspection dates are set for March 6 and March 10. Kocher also summarized ongoing coordination with county licensing authorities.
City Attorney Stephanie Anderson explained the legal difference between the city’s longstanding annual letter and a formal protest: the letter informs the Board of License Commissioners how the city views local businesses but is not required by state law; by contrast, a formal protest would trigger a state‑law requirement for the city to hold a public hearing and to file objections by March 1 each year. "If the city were to note a formal protest, we would be required to hold a public hearing," Anderson said, clarifying the timing and obligations.
Councilmember Oates moved to authorize the city manager to transmit the revised draft letter; the motion was seconded and carried by voice vote. No roll‑call tally was recorded in the public record of the meeting.
