Commission directs staff to study alcohol‑license options after business raises under‑21 access concerns

The West Fargo City Commission voted to direct staff to research potential amendments to the city’s alcoholic‑beverage ordinance and to consult existing liquor license holders and the police department.

Background: During public comment, Kurt Leppard, a West Fargo resident and long‑time business owner, urged the commission to reconsider proposals that would change whether under‑21 patrons can lawfully be present in certain liquor establishments. Leppard said changes could create competitive advantages for businesses that had not followed prior rules and questioned whether prior license classifications and renewals were handled properly.

The Liquor Control Board reviewed statutory changes in the North Dakota Century Code that local licensees cited and recommended staff study possible ordinance revisions so the city could bring options back to the commission. Commissioners emphasized the review must consider fairness to existing licensees and public‑safety implications.

Commissioner Erickson moved—and the commission approved—that staff prepare a set of potential ordinance amendments, conduct stakeholder outreach (including all existing license holders) and solicit input from the police department on enforcement and minor‑access issues. The motion passed 4‑1.

What comes next: Staff will evaluate the statutory changes, draft ordinance options that may include additional license categories or clarified rules for minors in licensed venues, and present those proposals to the commission after stakeholder engagement. The police chief will be included in the process to advise on enforcement and public‑safety implications.

The commission’s action does not itself change any license or permit; it only directs staff to return with proposed options for formal consideration.