FARGO (KFGO-AM) Marcus Theaters wants to add a twist to its 14-screen West Acres Cinema in Fargo. The fifth largest theater company in the country has proposed adding a bar and be able to serve beer, wine and spirits throughout the theater complex.
Along with a multi-milion dolllar upgrade of both the West Acres and Century Cinema theaters that includes the latest state-of-the arts screens and new seating, Marcus wants an "affordable" liquor license to serve alcohol at the West Acres complex. The company is asking the Liquor Control Committee for an exception to current licensing to secure one for $10,000, much lower than the going rate of $105,000.
A member of the committee, Police Chief Keith Ternes is not yet ready to say yes or no but he has concerns about the licensing request. He says, "I'll need some convincing as to why the City should carve out yet another in a long list of liquor licenses for another business niche."
Marcus Theaters says the changes are part of a national trend that will include adding pizza, sandwiches and other foods. The company now has three full service restaurants and six lounges in theaters it has elsewhere.