In a recent meeting of the St. Mary's County Alcohol Beverage Board, members voiced concerns over the permitting process for new establishments seeking to serve alcohol. The discussion highlighted a growing issue where national and local chains build restaurants and bars without prior approval from the Alcohol Beverage Board, leading to potential complications down the line.

One board member pointed out that the current process allows for significant build-outs to occur before the necessary liquor licenses are secured. This situation raises the risk of establishments investing heavily in construction only to find that their applications for alcohol sales could be denied. The member suggested that the county's Land Use and Growth Management (LUGM) should incorporate a requirement for alcohol licensing approval as part of its permitting process. This change would ensure that developers are aware of the need for a liquor license before they begin construction, potentially preventing wasted resources and confusion.

The conversation also touched on the limited number of available liquor licenses in certain districts, such as Lexington Park. With only two licenses remaining in that area, the board expressed concern that new establishments could be built without the necessary licenses, leaving them unable to operate as intended. This situation could create a competitive disadvantage for existing businesses that are already licensed.

The board members agreed that a more streamlined process could alleviate many of these issues. By ensuring that alcohol licensing is considered early in the development process, the board hopes to foster better communication with LUGM and other agencies involved in permitting. This proactive approach could lead to a smoother experience for new businesses and help maintain a balanced marketplace in St. Mary's County.

As the board continues to navigate these challenges, the discussions signal a potential shift in how alcohol licensing is integrated into the broader development framework, aiming to create a more efficient and transparent process for all stakeholders involved.