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Covering Dallas, Monmouth, Independence, Falls City and surrounding areas since 1868
INDEPENDENCE -- City officials recommended last week that the state renew liquor licenses of all 16 restaurants and businesses selling alcohol in Independence.
This includes Lenora's Ghost on Main Street, which has in the past drawn ire from town leaders because of alcohol-related disturbances.
Local governments can offer a recommendation -- or denial -- to the Oregon Liquor Control Commission regarding an establishments license. OLCC has final authority, but considers local endorsements in its decisions.
Independence police responded to 27 incidents at the popular bar in 2009, four more than in 2008
That year saw several serious cases, most of which stemmed from large, disorderly crowds showing up for a "college night" promotion on Wednesdays.
The crimes were less severe in 2009, said Independence Sgt. Pet Roy, who noted only four of the calls for service ended in arrests -- all misdemeanors.
In Independence, licensees are required to enter into a compliance plan with the police when there are four or more calls related to alcohol sales or disturbances in a three-month period.
As part of his plan, Lenora's owner Chris Hoffstetter instituted regular electronic scanning of drivers licenses prior to entering the bar, a uniformed security detail for large draw nights, and video surveillance of the interior of the establishment, Roy said.
Lenora's also purchased a small bus to shuttle intoxicated patrons back to their residences.
