Click here to sign up for our free daily newsletter
(File photo/northeastNOW Staff)
Liquor store approval

Humboldt Council approves liquor store despite letters in opposition

Jun 25, 2025 | 11:36 AM

Humboldt City Council has approved a discretionary use application for a liquor store at Humboldt Commons on Eighth Avenue.

City Planning Coordinator Tanner Zimmerman said there still needs to be a development review, and the applicant needs to adhere to local zoning bylaws.

The decision isn’t without its detractors, however, as the city received several letters expressing concern about the liquor store. Public notice was provided for two weeks leading up to Monday’s council meeting, and property owners within 75 metres of the proposed site of the liquor store were also notified.

Some of the letters were troubled about adding a liquor store in general, citing addiction issues in the city. Others living in the immediate area pointed out the area was already served by nearby liquor stores, while one letter expressed concern about the facility having a drive-thru option and the potential increased traffic.

Zimmerman said the city had no comment on the architectural design of the proposal.

“That window and how it affects traffic, how it affects safety…will be discussed in the development review.”

Zimmerman said the city does have the residents’ best interests in mind, and they will ensure the project complies with all bylaws.

The city has three liquor licenses, and this proposed store would replace the license of the Saskatchewan Liquor and Gaming Authority (SLGA) store that was closed downtown after the provincial government privatized all liquor stores.

cam.lee@pattisonmedia.com