WESTBROOK — A resident who wants to open a restaurant on Elmwood Avenue in Westbrook was denied his request for a liquor and food service license.

The City Council voted 6-2 to deny Shai Patel’s request for a liquor license. He proposed opening a restaurant that would offer Middle Eastern, Indian and American cuisine.

In a separate vote at Monday’s public hearing, the council voted 6-2 to deny Patel’s request for a food service license.

Westbrook police recommended that councilors deny the license because Patel was convicted of selling and using drug paraphernalia in April. He paid a $300 fine.

Councilor Michael Foley asked Patel if saw the question on the license application that asked if he was ever convicted of a crime.

“I put no because I was under the impression that I didn’t have that on my record,” Patel told the councilors.

Councilor Brendan Rielly said he would not support Patel’s request because he felt Patel was not truthful in his application. He referenced an ordinance in the city charter that says giving a false statement is grounds for denial of a license. 

“It’s difficult to understand how someone can be mistaken about their conviction, especially when it was as recent as earlier this year,” Rielly said.

Copy the Story Link