Committee hears multiple demerit appearances over underage sales; police offer training

At its March 11 meeting the Safety and Licensing Committee heard appearances from four establishments with demerit‑point violations related to underage sales or an absent licensed operator.

Heidi Bennett of Cozy Corner said the incident that generated 80 demerit points was her first offense in seven years; she described an inexperienced server who misread an ID and said she has reinforced a policy to double‑check uncertain IDs. Terrence and Judy Wilder of Wilder’s Bistro said an experienced bartender misread an 18 as a 28 and that the restaurant has issued a staff notice, obtained signed acknowledgements, and is exploring handheld ID scanners.

Manager Kevin Armstrong and Dan Burton of the Maritime Bar acknowledged hiring an employee who falsely claimed credentials; Armstrong said he should have verified the license. The maritime establishment’s total points stood at 120, putting it closer to potential suspension if further infractions occur. Maggie Kriegel of Hank and Karens said a long‑time employee misread the birth date on an ID and reported new procedures: two‑person verification and bringing IDs into brighter light.

Committee members urged all licensees to take the police department up on free training; Lieutenant Gooden was cited as the contact for refresher courses and scanner recommendations. No immediate adjustments to liquor licenses were made during the appearances; the sessions were taken as the applicants’ opportunity to explain corrective measures to the committee.