City Council Approves Licenses, Land Purchase

The Fallon City Council unanimously approved liquor and cabaret licenses Tuesday, Nov. 3, for the Black Door Events Center, a planned special-event venue at 406 S. Maine St.

The licenses were requested by Lani Moore for Burn the Ships LLC, doing business as Black Door Events Center. The liquor license permits on-premises alcohol sales, while the cabaret license permits live entertainment or dancing. Both passed 3-0 after city staff recommended approval.

Moore explained that she hopes to open the event center Dec. 1. The venue would host activities such as paint nights and live music, rather than operate as a full-time bar.

In response to Councilman Paul Harmon's question regarding restrooms, City Engineer Derek Zimney said that two additional restrooms are in the event space, with a restroom accessible to people with disabilities in an adjacent building.

Councilwoman Kelly Frost inquired as to how alcohol would be handled at private events and whether a manager would be required on-site. Moore explained that she would serve alcohol at events she organizes, while private renters could bring their own. Fallon Police Chief Daniel Babiarz clarified that guests could bring alcohol to private gatherings without a liquor license if no sales were involved.

In another 3-0 vote, the council approved a sale agreement for approximately 1.24 acres at Rattlesnake Hill for $50,000, plus escrow fees and costs. The parcel is being purchased from trustees of the Casey Family Trust.

City Attorney Trent deBraga addressed the potential for future grants or development opportunities, stating that the city already owns most of the hill. He added that acquiring the parcel would provide greater control over the property.

The council received the Fallon Police Department’s September report. Officers responded to 640 calls for service and made 25 arrests.

Two domestic batteries were reported, with one case closed due to lack of evidence. Another battery was also reported, resulting in an arrest. Seven thefts and four vehicles were reported stolen, with all the vehicles recovered locally.

Officers conducted 126 traffic stops, issuing 106 warnings and 20 citations. The department responded to 26 traffic collisions, including 16 on public property and 10 on private property.

The Fallon Animal Shelter took in 108 animals during the month, including 43 from within city limits, 63 from Churchill County, and two from tribal jurisdiction. Department volunteers contributed 94.5 hours and completed 39 Helping Hands visits.

Mayor Ken Tedford proclaimed November No-Shave November in Fallon, encouraging cancer awareness, preventive screenings, and support for people affected by the disease.