Following a public hearing that saw general support from the community, the Homer City Council on Monday, March 10, passed a resolution asking the Alaska State Alcoholic Beverage Control Board to issue an additional 10 liquor licenses for restaurants or eating places within the City of Homer.

Resolution 25-016 was originally introduced on Feb. 24. The council typically does not hold public hearings for resolutions, but did this time following direction from the ABC board in the event there was any opposition from residents.

Jim Anderson, vice president on the Homer Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, said during the hearing that he was “absolutely in support” of the resolution.

“The food and beverage scene here in Homer is vital to our continued growth,” he said. “This is really vital to a lot of business owners who are trying to expand existing (businesses) and also new business owners who are trying to come and settle and help our city grow.”

Lisa Nolan, owner of Fat Olive’s restaurant, said that being able to add a liquor license is “instrumental” to a restaurant’s success, and that fellow restaurateurs “deserve the same chances we’ve had.”

Resolution 25-016 passed without opposition from any members of the council.

The next Homer City Council regular meeting will be held on Monday, March 24 at 6 p.m. in the Homer City Hall Cowles Council Chambers and over Zoom.