TELL US: Should Burlington go for More Liquor Licenses?

Should the Town of Burlington apply for more liquor licenses from the state to distribute to future restaurants?

The Board of Selectmen discussed that issue during Monday night's meeting. Town Administrator John Petrin told the board that there is interest among restaurant groups and the town's own planning department in acquiring new licenses for restaurants.

Burlington currently has 25 liquor licenses that can be used by restaurants, Petrin said. Due to town bylaws all of the establishments must be geared towards food. Burlington has no traditional bars. There are also some licenses, like those for the restaurants in the upcoming NorthWest park, that are tied to specific locations.

Petrin said acquiring addition licenses would have two effects. First, it would give more incentive for restaurants to come to town. Second, he said that having additional licenses available would protect locally-owned restaurants, who now face the pressure from chain restaurants to sell their licenses.

"We're seeing a trend of established restaurants who have been local selling licenses to chain-type restaurants," he said. "I think this is a way to protect local business and not have them be enticed by a sale. Licenses are not supposed to be discussed as a sale but that is what's happening."

The board made no formal decision on the issue but did state an interest in continuing the discussion. It was floated that this may be something the town could pursue for the 2013 January Town Meeting.

"I think we can make the effort and get ready for January," Chair of the Board Ralph Patuto said. "Word around town is that restaurants want to come to Burlington and those that come here don't like the restriction of having to be in a certain area."

What do you think? Should Burlington go for additional liquor licenses? Let us know in the comments section below.