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Residents press commission to delay vote on proposed package store at Harbor Bay Plaza; plan continued to November
Summary
An application to allow packaged-beverage retail in a banquet room at Stringers (to be renamed The Catch) prompted several residents to complain about notice and suitability; the commission voted 4–1 to continue the matter to the November meeting to allow more outreach and applicant follow-up.
Sewall's Point — Public opposition to a proposal to add packaged-beverage sales at the Stringers restaurant in Harbor Bay Plaza led the Town Commission on Oct. 22 to continue the application to the November meeting for additional community outreach.
Planner Bonnie Landry presented the alternate-use request and recommended approval with conditions: no drive-through, and hours limited so the package side would close no later than 10 p.m. Monday–Thursday and Sunday, and no later than 11 p.m. Friday–Saturday. Landry said the applicant had landlord approval and that police and building officials had no concerns.
Owner Nick Darley told commissioners he intends a boutique-style package offering — charcuterie and gift sets alongside wine and specialty retail — and emphasized a desire to be respectful to the community. Darley said he hoped the use would create sustainable traffic for the plaza.
Several residents spoke against or urged postponement. Ronnie Piccolo and Jo Wall said the town had not adequately notified residents, called for better transparency and argued a liquor/package store does not fit Sewall's Point's character. Mike Antille praised municipal staff but said clarity was needed on whether the business would be a gourmet-style shop or a convenience liquor outlet.
Commissioners asked for visuals, limits on hours and product mix (suggestions included eliminating small single-serve bottles), and recommended the applicant seek community feedback. Commissioner Mayfield moved to place the item on the November agenda to allow applicant outreach and staff to collect input. The roll-call vote was 4–1: Commissioner Burrell voted No; the motion passed.
Why it matters: The requested change would introduce a new retail liquor availability point in a small town where nearby national retailers already sell alcohol; residents worry about fit and notice, while the applicant says the design will be boutique and neighborhood-oriented.
Next steps: The application will be scheduled for the November meeting; staff and the applicant were asked to provide visuals and community-input opportunities before final action.
