Another "Power Grab"?
Since when is a business owner seeking a license denied a public hearing? The whole point of going before the Town Council is to air out whatever issues may exist and give the public a chance to comment. Denying this process from occurring sets a dangerous precedent regardless of whatever situation the applicant may or may not have been involved in.
Its also troubling that a council member was posting information on Facebook regarding the denial, including the "specific" reason for denial when people at the meeting had no clear idea why the applicant was denied. "We actually denied the victualling license, which meant she could not have the hearing for a liquor license" - was what the council member posted on Facebook. It would have been nice if this information was shared at the meeting instead of on social media.
As a Council member your first responsibility is at the meeting and having a clear, open and transparent process. You have applicants and members of the public present who are entitled to at the very least an explanation of your actions. This seems to be a problem in general with the Council - its very difficult to discern what action(s) they are actually taking whether it is this situation or others.
Ultimately it is the Council President Chris Stanley who sets the tone of the meetings. It seems under his leadership its become more difficult to figure out what our government is doing on our behalf and why certain decisions are made. And was it really necessary to tell the applicant "Have a Pleasant Evening"? after denying her a hearing with no explanation. Seems unprofessional and over the top regardless of the situation.
Please explain the inappropriate content below.
