Liquor Control Board - October 15, 2025 Minutes

1. Approval of Previous Minutes
• Minutes from the September 17, 2025, meeting were reviewed.
• Motion to approve the Minutes: Brekke
• Second. Doyle
• Vote: Minutes approved unanimously.
2. License Applications & Transfers
a. Northdale Oil Inc. doing business as Sisters Beer, Wine, and Spirits
• Location: 4300 County Road 81.
• Discussion: Sprague Presented. Annexation and new off sale liquor license.
• Floor plan submitted; meets city requirements (separate alcohol area, 100-foot rule).
• Background check completed; minor items noted, but police chief recommends approval.
• Motion to approve license: Hackman
• Second: Brekke
• Vote: The motion carried unanimously.
b. Target Store Update (Off-topic)
• Target received a B limited license earlier in the year.
• Store design was influenced by city alcohol requirements.
• Target followed all rules for their existing building.
c. DALA, LLC doing business as The 1889
• Location: 602 Main Avenue (former Wimmer’s Jewelry).
• Discussion: Sprague Presented
• Applying for a beer license in addition to existing wine license.
• Background check completed, no serious concerns.
• Motion to approve license: Brekke
• Second: Nelson
• Vote: The motion carried unanimously.
d. Frank’s Bar LLC doing business as Frank’s Lounge
• Location: 2640 52nd Avenue South.
• Ownership transfer: one owner removed due to license conflict.
• Background check completed, no serious concerns.
• License transfer recommended for approval.
• Motion to approve transfer: Hackman
• Second: Brekke
• Vote: The motion carried unanimously.
3. Police Department Monthly Report
• Presented by Chief Zabolski.
• Fewer incidents reported at liquor establishments.
• Owners are cooperative and responsive to issues.
• Card readers distributed to businesses; positive feedback and effectiveness noted.
• Suggestion to discuss acquiring more card readers at future meetings.
4. Local Permit Proposal for State Permit Holders
• Discussion on requiring a local permit for wineries/breweries with state licenses operating in Fargo.
• Aim: Ensure city awareness, health compliance, and fair competition.
• Tax Commissioner’s office recommends local permit system.
• Ongoing discussion; further action to be considered before next summer.
5. Wine Accessory License (Discussion Only)
• PowerPoint presented by Steve Sprague.
• Proposed license allows patrons to purchase unopened bottles of wine with a meal (not a standalone off sale).
• Must meet 50% food sales requirement; max two bottles per patron; no retail display.
• Convenience for patrons.
• Intended to boost small restaurant sales and keep Fargo competitive.
• Concerns raised about fairness to existing license holders and potential loopholes.
• Next steps: Draft ordinance, seek public and license holder feedback.
6. Walk-up Item: THC Drinks
• Off sale company inquiry about selling THC drinks.
• Police and public health confirm legality if THC content is below 0.3%.
7. Recognition of Steve Sprague’s Service
• Steve’s retirement acknowledged.
• Commendations for integrity, innovation, and service to the City of Fargo.
8. Adjournment
• Meeting adjourned after final remarks from Steve Sprague.
2:18 PM