NEWS/Important Updates

November 29, 2023

Last night, during the LAA (Local Licensing Authority) meeting, a crucial decision was made regarding licensing fees in our community. The consensus was reached to adjust the licensing fees over the next three years to ensure alignment with neighboring municipalities of similar populations. 

As you are likely aware, our city's alcohol licensing fees have remained the same for over a decade, which will eventually cause a disparity between our revenue streams and the evolving needs of our community. In 2019, the board had its first meeting with a proposed adjustment of these fees before the onset of the pandemic. Given the extraordinary challenges that our local businesses faced during this period, the proposal was understandably deferred by the board to prevent additional burdens on our already struggling establishments.

Our city has undergone significant changes, and our local revenue needs have shifted accordingly. We must ensure our fee structure aligns with the growing demands for public services, infrastructure improvements, and community development.

Here are the key changes that will take effect in 2025, 2026, and 2027:

Section 12 and 15 Licenses:

• An annual increase of $100 over the next three years.

Section 19 Licenses:

• The fees, which were supposed to be updated over five years ago, will now be gradually adjusted to half the cost of a wine/malt license over the course of three years.

There will be no changes to auto dealership, entertainment, or amusement device fees. For those who wish to gain a deeper understanding of the decision-making process and the vote, please view the full video of the meeting on the E-Media YouTube channel once available.