It’s unusual to hear applause following a vote by Port Alberni city council, but council’s support for Char’s Landing liquor Licence application got hands clapping Monday night.
While many support the local entrepreneur, some oppose extended hours and alcohol service at the club.
Charlene Patterson, owner of Char’s Landing at 4815 Argyle St., is seeking a restaurant liquor licence that will allow her to remain open later and serve alcohol.
Her original application sought to operate 3 p.m. to 1 a.m. Monday through Sunday.
While the final decision will be made by the Liquor Control and Licensing Branch, council’s support is significant.
Patterson said the license will improve her customers’ experience and increase her club’s profitability.
She said after hosting more than 70 concerts, she has received just two noise complaints.
However, she added she will amend her hours of operation and close the patio early to maintain good relationships with her neighbours.
Patterson has just completed work on a new outdoor patio, which has in part fuelled the controversy regarding her application.
Following a request for public input on the application, council received more than 20 letters of support for Patterson.
Two letters and a petition with 15 signatures opposing the application were also submitted, stating the “noise at night has and will have [a] negative impact on our neighbourhood.”
Two letters supported the application, but not the hours and days of operation.
City councillors expressed support for Char’s Landing.
“We need to support Charlene,” said coun. Wendy Kerr.
“This is a wonderful addition to Port Alberni.”
A handful of Char’s Landing supporters also spoke.
“If you haven’t been there, do go, you will love it,” said Patricia Cleary, a nearby resident.
Council voted to support the application but to minimize the impact to nearby residents, recommended the club’s hours be restricted to midnight, Sunday through Thursday and 1 a.m. Fridays and Saturdays, with closure of the outdoor patio at 11 p.m. nightly.