Title
Discussion: Special Events and their Impact on Liquor License Compliance
Body
Certain liquor licenses require a minimum percentage of food sales relative to alcohol sales based on gross sales tax receipts. During special events such as pub crawls, Downtown Days, Oktoberfest, etc., alcohol sales spike while food sales often remain flat or increase at a much lower rate. As a result, a restaurant that is ordinarily compliant can fail the ratio test during a reporting period even though its day-to-day operation remains restaurant-oriented. When they fail the ratio test, they may be required to obtain a different license classification or operate under different conditions, impacting the overall performance of the business.
This discussion item responds to a request for information from Council regarding liquor license sales metrics and how special events may impact their ability to comply. Police Department staff will provide a summary and recommendations for CEDC to consider.
Recommendation
Provide direction to staff.
Presenter
Major Nicole Waters, Police Department