Pies On Pizza has asked the state for a liquor license for its proposed restaurant expansion along Pine Street. Howard Lieberman represented the restaurant at a public hearing conducted before the Catasauqua Council's workshop session on May 19.

Acquiring a liquor license in Lehigh County is an expensive option, with pricing easily exceeding $125,000.

According to Lieberman, the county has 14 liquor licenses available, with five reserved for businesses in Allentown's Neighborhood Improvement Zone, the area around the new hockey arena.

Lieberman explained some years ago, the state recognized the cost of a standard liquor license is beyond the reach of some businesses, particularly restaurants serving smaller, but growing populations.

In response to the concern, the Liquor Control Board created a new class of license designed to encourage restaurants to expand.

Under the new license classification, the state will allow smaller establishments like Pies On Pizza to serve alcohol, but with restrictions.

"The license can't be used for a tavern," he said. "Seventy percent of the business revenues must come from food."

In addition to the revenue restrictions, the license can be issued for one location and one owner. It cannot be transferred or sold separately.

"The license will only allow liquor to be sold in the new restaurant area. The front area will be used only as it is now, no alcohol will be sold," said Lieberman.

The restaurant restriction is in place because the takeout and limited seating area in the front of the building is not directly accessible from the new restaurant.

If the business closes for some reason, a different owner cannot use the license even if the location is the same.

The license is granted only if the borough approves the application.

As Lieberman noted, there were no opponents at the public hearing.

"The owner took over a blighted building when the beer distributor went out of business and improved the building," Lieberman said. "He also improved the public access areas with new sidewalks."

Council will vote on the application at its June 2 meeting.

Pies On Pizza owner John Giovanni, explained at last month's council session his intent is to allow customers to be able to enjoy a beverage with their meal.