Elko New Market OK's new liquor licenses

Patrick Fisher, Staff Writer

Welcome to the community.

Elko New Market Mayor Kent Hartzler said that to representatives of The End Zone Bar & Grill Thursday, Sept. 11. That night the Elko New Market City Council unanimously approved a series of licenses for the new business.

The End Zone had requested on-sale, on-sale Sunday, off-sale and 2 a.m. close liquor licenses. The establishment will be located in the former OZ Bar & Grill on the east end of Elko New Market along Scott County Road 2.

John Stich, general manager of the business, informed the council there have been some minor setbacks getting the place up and running, but it's hoped the bar and grill will be open before the first of the month.

Another item the council unanimously approved was a permit for Bullseye Saloon to hold an outdoor entertainment event.

City Administrator Tom Terry noted that such permits have typically been granted, although the city has recently heard complaints from neighbors about noise from the establishment concerning sound systems from inside. According to city ordinances the cutoff time for noise from regular entertainment is 10 p.m.

Council member Jim Friedges asked if the city has specifications about security. He pointed out it could possibly help the establishment take care of some of the noise.

City clerk Pat Nutt said the city has never had that.

Mayor Hartzler said he was leaning toward having a cutoff time of 10 p.m. and not allowing outside bands.

Stich noted The End Zone was planning to have outside entertainment at times. He realized noise late at night wasn't pleasant, but in defense of liquor establishments, people should realize there would likely be some when they move next to such a business.

Council member Jason Ponsonby was in favor of 11 p.m.

In my mind there's no such thing as a special permit