Watertown Council Supports Liquor License Renewals, Highlights Community Efforts to Combat Underage Sales
- Steve Jurrens
- 2 days ago
- 2 min read
Northeast Radio SD News - Watertown, SD - The Watertown City Council approved the renewal of multiple malt beverage, wine, and liquor licenses Monday night, after previous violations involving the sale of alcohol to individuals under the age of 21.
The Council voted to renew licenses for nine establishments, emphasizing that the proprietors had already appeared before the Council to detail the corrective measures they had taken to prevent future offenses.
The renewed licenses cover the following establishments:
· Group 1 (Previous Testimony Provided): Dempsey's (Shamrocks and Edelweiss), Doc's, The Prop, Watertown Brewing Company, Johnny Ringo's, and Cowboy Stores.
· Group 2 (Single Item Renewals): Four Amigos Cowboy Country Stores (first-time violation this cycle), Willy’s, and Dakota Butcher.
The Council’s discussion focused heavily on the collaborative efforts between city officials and local businesses to bolster compliance.
Finance Officer Kristen Bobzien confirmed that all necessary fees were paid and notices were published for the renewals. Mayor Ried Holien clarified for the public that the owners of the seven establishments in the first group had already testified regarding their corrective actions.
Chief of Police Tim Toomey spoke about the police department’s proactive role in working with businesses, notably the Spies Corporation (owners of the Cowboy Country Stores).
"The police department works directly with the businesses... We haven't came across any specific business that is intentionally ignoring the law or breaking the law. These are employees; they make mistakes," Chief Toomey stated.
Chief Toomey detailed the measures taken, including developing plans for employee education, new-employee orientation procedures, and drafting specific instructional letters for staff.
"Our goal is 100% compliance. We hate to see anybody fail. So that's our goal," the Chief added.
Councilman Dan Schutte expressed appreciation for the collaborative approach, noting that the previous Council meeting, where businesses testified, had been constructive rather than punitive.
"It was just good to see that, I mean, as much as it can be looked as a shaming, but I didn't feel that way that night because it was a lot of good input and people were sharing what they're doing to make changes," Schutte commented.
Councilman Michael Heuer recused himself from the vote on all license renewals. The remaining motions to approve the renewals for all establishments passed.
