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Ernie’s Place renewal tabled after accounting discrepancies and state hold; board requests 15 months of records
Summary
Ernie’s Place contested an inspector’s claim that alcohol sales exceeded the county threshold after owner Ricky Jones produced updated accounting that he said corrected earlier figures; the board tabled the matter, requested 15 consecutive months of sales records and asked the owner to obtain a written release from the Maryland Comptroller regarding a state hold on the liquor license.
The Carroll County Liquor Board tabled its decision on a contested renewal for Ernie’s Place after hearing conflicting accounting evidence and questions about a state hold on the license.
Inspectors placed an exhibit in evidence showing alcohol sales at 83% of gross receipts on a renewal form — well above the county’s internal threshold. Owner Ricky Jones said the figure was erroneous, blamed a prior computer system failure and a data pull by a former manager, and presented corrected totals from a new accountant that reduced the alcohol percentage. Jones told the board he would supply corrected documentation and quarterly reports showing the true figures.
Given the conflicting records, the board asked Jones to provide 15 consecutive months of sales records (Jan. 2025–Mar. 2026) so staff could verify the correct percentages. That request includes quarterly data for comparison and an accounting documentary trail the board can review before making a renewal determination.
Separately, the board examined a state notice that had placed a hold on the liquor license (the documents variously referenced sales‑tax and unemployment/workers’ compensation arrearages). Jones said arrears were paid and that his accountant had spoken with the Comptroller’s office; the board required written confirmation from the state before reinstating the liquor privileges. Members said they would reinstate the license promptly if the Comptroller’s office provides a dated release confirming payment and lift of hold.
The board scheduled a follow‑up hearing for June 10 and said it would consider fines and other sanctions only after verifying the full set of records and state correspondence.
