BLOOMFIELD, Mo. -- The Stoddard County Commission authorized sending certified letters to 10 businesses in Stoddard County that have not paid their annual fees for a liquor license in the county. The commission took the action at their regular meeting Monday.
County Clerk Joe Watson said notifications were sent on June 1 to all 57 businesses in the county that sell alcohol. He said another notification was sent on June 15. License fees were due on June 30.
The license fees vary, according to Watson. The fees are higher for those that sell alcohol on Sunday and/or sell alcohol by the drink.
The 10 businesses that had not paid were: Amerimart #29 in Dexter, the Fraternal Order of the Bears near Puxico, the Hideaway in Dexter, Marinas Italian Restaurant in Dexter, On the Go in Bloomfield, On the Go in Dexter, Paradise Lounge near Bernie, Rhodes 101 Stop in Dexter, Toloquilla Inc. doing business as Tios in Dexter and the Tool Shed Saloon near Puxico.
Watson said the Hideway and Tios were closed, and the Fraternal Order of the Bears was no longer selling alcohol.
Presiding Commissioner Greg Mathis suggested that a final letter should be sent to each of the businesses which have not paid. Watson asked how long the businesses should be given to remit the balance owed to the county. Mathis responded, "Ten days."
Mathis said he personally went to visit with businesses who failed to pay the license fee last year, and would do it again this year if it became necessary.
Commissioner Danny Talkington asked Watson if notices were sent by certified letter. Watson said they were sent by regular mail. Talkington suggested they send the final notices by certified mail to make sure the business receives it.
Commissioner Carol Jarrell agreed. Watson said the would mail the notices as soon as possible.
The commission voted to appoint Peter Coutavus to the Industrial Development Authority (IDA) of Stoddard County Board of Directors. Coutavus replaces Ed Wilkison who moved from the county. The position represents the Puxico area.
Mathis said Coutavus was recommended by IDA Executive Director Julian Steiner. He noted that Coutavus had previously served on the IDA Board, as well as several other positions at Puxico including mayor.
"He is a good advocate for Puxico," said Mathis.
Jarrell asked if Coutavus was "willing to serve on the board."
Mathis said he spoke with Coutavus, and he agreed to serve on the IDA Board.
Talkington made a motion to appoint Coutavus to the IDA Board, and it was seconded by Jarrell. It passed by a 3-0 vote.