Hastings could get many new liquor licenses

BARRY COUNTY, Mich. (NEWSCHANNEL 3) – A city in Barry County has gotten a liquor license windfall.

While many communities fight over a limited number of licenses, the City of Hastings has suddenly found itself with the potential for 90 new licenses.

Gary Rizor remembers when he opened the County Seat Lounge in Hastings, a liquor license from the state cost a lot more. He says it was $40,000 in 1983.

"That's a lot of money back then," said Rizor.

Rizor's restaurant is one of eight that currently have a liquor license in Hastings.

"We were currently at our quota that we have for this community," said John Hart, community development director.

Now, Hart says downtown Hastings has the potential for a lot more licenses.

"I knew it was going to be large," said Hart.

New bars and restaurants in Hastings could add 91 new liquor licenses.

"A couple more never hurts, always nice to have another place to go eat," said Frank Dawson.

The city hopes that new restaurants and licenses sweep in a lot of more money.

"The hope is that we can attract folks to provide additional entertainment venues," said Hart.

However, Rizor wonders with his profits already way down, what more competition will add to a crowded market.

The city says three parties are already interested in additional downtown liquor licenses and estimates that a more realistic number for the future is between ten and twelve.