A Lake Country cidery is seeking district council support for a liquor licence application allowing alcohol service at the Irvine Road business.
Folktale Cidery has applied for a lounge area endorsement to a manufacturer's licence to serve booze at its existing barn building at 3950 Irvine Rd., with a capacity of 30 people. The proposed hours of operation are 9 a.m. to 10 p.m., with liquor service ending at 9:30 p.m. seven days a week.
District staff have recommended supporting the application, stating it would be a positive addition to the community. The cidery is located in an agricultural area, with limited residential properties nearby, and the noise impact is expected to be minimal, according to a staff report to council.
The proposed hours and occupancy are also in line with other similar local businesses, but with a smaller capacity.
Public consultation included letters sent to property owners within 100 meters, signage posted on the property, and advertisements in the local newspaper. The public is also encouraged to share their views at council91ÂãÁÄÊÓƵ™s Jan. 14 meeting. There were no concerns raised by bylaw or RCMP during the review of the application, the report stated.
Staff have also noted that the cidery will support local businesses and diversify the agri-tourism offerings in the region. The decision on whether to approve the application will ultimately be made by the Liquor and Cannabis Regulation Branch (LCRB).
Council can support the application as is, suggest reduced hours, or provide a more detailed resolution either in support, with conditions, or opposing the application.
