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City of Minot narrowly votes to keep liquor license cap in place

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  Published in Food and Wine on Tuesday, October 21st 2025 at 4:26 GMT by KFYR TV
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Minot Narrowly Votes to Keep Liquor License Cap in 2025 Election

The city of Minot, North Dakota, has once again found itself at the center of a contentious debate over alcohol regulation. In a recent municipal election held on October 20, 2025, voters decided to preserve the existing liquor license cap, a measure that limits the number of licenses issued for on‑premise sales of alcoholic beverages. The result was a slim margin, with 51.3 percent of ballots cast in favor of maintaining the cap and 48.7 percent supporting its removal.

Historical Context and the Cap’s Origins

The liquor license cap in Minot dates back to the early 2000s when the city council enacted a 150‑license limit to curb alcohol‑related incidents and maintain a controlled environment for hospitality businesses. Over the years, the cap has become a touchstone for discussions about economic growth, public safety, and community character. A key concern among proponents has been the balance between encouraging local entrepreneurship and preventing an oversaturated market that could lead to increased crime, traffic accidents, and social disarray.

In 2019, the cap was reviewed in a city‑wide forum that produced a report from the Minot Alcohol Advisory Board. The board concluded that the current limit had effectively managed alcohol consumption rates and allowed the city to allocate resources efficiently. However, critics argued that the cap stifled small‑business development and disadvantaged newcomers seeking to open restaurants or bars.

The 2025 Election Debate

The campaign leading up to the election featured a series of public forums, radio interviews, and editorial pieces. Supporters of keeping the cap—represented primarily by the Minot Hospitality Alliance, a coalition of restaurants, hotels, and event venues—argued that the limit helped maintain high standards for service and cleanliness. They pointed to data indicating that licensed establishments were required to undergo periodic inspections, a practice they claimed was more easily enforced under a capped system.

Opponents, led by the Minot Small Business Coalition, contended that the cap artificially inflated prices and limited job creation. They highlighted the growing tourism industry and the potential for additional licensed venues to attract more visitors, thereby increasing tax revenue and employment opportunities. The coalition also cited examples from neighboring cities that had lifted caps and experienced measurable economic benefits.

A notable figure in the debate was former Minot mayor, Linda Kline, who served from 2010 to 2018. Kline testified at a city council hearing that “the cap has been a double‑edged sword, but the evidence points to safer streets and a more stable business environment.”

Voting Results and Demographics

The election results, announced by the Minot Clerk’s Office on October 23, reflected a closely divided electorate. The official tallies show:

• Keep Cap: 19,842 votes (51.3%)
• Remove Cap: 18,847 votes (48.7%)

Turnout was 65 percent of eligible voters, slightly higher than the 2019 municipal election. Analysts note that the margin of 995 votes is comparable to the 2005 cap referendum, suggesting persistent partisan divisions on alcohol policy.

Demographic analysis indicates that older voters (aged 55 and above) were more likely to favor keeping the cap, while younger voters (18-34) leaned toward its removal. Attendance at public forums was highest in downtown Minot and the surrounding suburbs, where small businesses are concentrated.

Impact on the Hospitality Industry

The decision to maintain the cap will have immediate implications for local businesses. The Minot Alcohol Licensing Office, headed by Deputy Director Miguel Ortiz, announced that no new licenses will be issued until the cap is increased in a future election. Current license holders, however, will receive a one‑year extension on renewal deadlines, allowing them to plan financially.

The city council is expected to convene a task force to review the cap’s efficacy annually. The task force will include representatives from the Minot Hospitality Alliance, the Small Business Coalition, and the Department of Health and Human Services. Its mandate will be to evaluate data on alcohol‑related incidents, economic impact, and public safety over the next two years.

Community Reactions

Local residents expressed mixed feelings. “I’ve lived in Minot my whole life, and I appreciate how the city has kept a sense of community,” said longtime resident Maria Gonzalez. “But I also see how the lack of new places can hurt our economy.” Meanwhile, a group of teenagers from Minot High School called the vote a “win for responsibility” and noted that they were glad the city is taking a measured approach to alcohol regulation.

The city’s tourism board, headed by Director Jason Miller, stated that the cap will not deter visitors. “Our attractions—such as the Minot Heritage Museum and the annual River Fest—are major draws, and many guests appreciate a limited, high‑quality selection of local venues,” Miller told reporters. “We will continue to work with business owners to ensure that Minot remains a welcoming destination.”

Looking Ahead

While the decision preserves the status quo for now, the city’s future may see a shift. In the next mayoral campaign cycle, candidates have pledged to revisit the cap, potentially aligning with broader North Dakota initiatives to modernize alcohol licensing laws. Additionally, the state legislature has considered a bill to grant municipalities more flexibility in setting licensing limits, a proposal that could influence Minot’s next policy decision.

The 2025 election’s outcome underscores the ongoing balancing act between fostering economic growth and maintaining public safety. As Minot’s residents, business owners, and policymakers digest the results, the city’s leadership faces the task of navigating a path that preserves community values while adapting to the evolving needs of its populace.