Booze back at the Farmers' Cabinet
The popular Walnut Street bar had been closed since Dec. 30, 12 days after state police raided it and seized its alcohol after it was determined that the liquor license had been forged to make it appear effective. It expired Oct. 31.
The Farmers' Cabinet plans to reopen for business, with its liquor license, at 5 p.m. Thursday.
The popular bar at 1111-13 Walnut St. has been closed since Dec. 30.
It stopped serving alcohol the night of Dec. 18, when state police raided it and seized its alcohol after it was determined that the liquor license had been forged to make it appear effective; it expired Oct. 31.
Matt Swartz, who described himself to police as an owner, was arrested on charges including forgery. He faces a preliminary hearing Jan. 16. The 800 containers of alcohol could be destroyed.
The LCB granted Farmers' Cabinet temporary authority to sell alcohol, till Feb. 8. It is expected to issue a formal license, good till Oct. 31, after a review.
Edward McHugh, the bar's lawyer, would not describe the steps undertaken to restore its license, which had not been renewed because taxes remained unpaid. The state Revenue Department declined to disclose the tax debt, citing confidentiality rules.
An LCB representative said $1,420 in fees and an unspecified tax bill were paid Wednesday.