Sea Dog Answers to License Violation

is out of the doghouse.

Representatives of the Main Street eatery left Town Hall last night without being penalized for what they called "a gross administrative error."

The public hearing, held during the selectmen's meeting, was scheduled to address Sea Dog's failure to notify the town of a change in management. According to state law, establishments with liquor licenses must have in place a manager who has been approved by the licensing authority.

According to Michael Minichello, Sea Dog's director of operations, the restaurant started having "issues with a previous manager" in April, and began training a replacement. That manager was let go shortly thereafter, Minichello said.

"The restaurant business turnover is a bit of a challenge," he said.

Calling the miscommunication a "gross administrative error," Minichello said he thought the process of satisfying the license requirements was being handled.

"We've put myself on site until we can find propery management," Minichello said, adding that he expected a permanent manager would be hired within six months.

The third Sea Dog restaurant in Massachusetts, the Northborough location opened at 318 Main St. last August.

Selectmen approved Sea Dog's application to name Minichello the restaurant's manager, and were assured Minichello would be on site for at least 40 hours a week.

"It's nice for you to come in here, and 'fall on your sword,'" Selectman Jeff Amberson said, thanking Sea Dogs representatives for taking accountability.

Selectmen cautioned Minichello that future violations could lead to action including but not limited to license suspension.