Dayton Man Is Fighting City Hall For Liquor License

However, one man who wants a license for his bed and breakfast, took his fight to the Dayton City Commission meeting on Wednesday.

Dayton city leaders and the Neighborhood Association tried to cap the number of liquor licenses in the Oregon District at seventeen.

But, the state issues those licenses and one man said he needs a license as an added attraction for his bed and breakfast inn.

Jeffery Gonya said, "Some people believe if the building is sold the permit goes with it, this is false."

Gonya tired to dispel rumors in front of city commisioners in hopes that they will drop their opposition to a liquor license for his business, the Inn Port D'Vino, a bread and breakfast.

Gonya said he's been in business since 2007 and he wants to open a retail wine shop with on-site tasting, seating 20 people at the most.

Gonya said, "We run a good business. People appreciate our business. It's one more amenity for our business."

However, his plan is running into opposition from the Neighborhood Association and the city. They fear this might become another bar on 5th Street and could open the door for more problems.

Officials from the city and the association are on record, saying they do not want any more new liquor licenses, other than the 17 already in the Oregon District.

Jeffery Gonya said opponents are worried about a number, and they should look at the quality of his business.

Gonya and his wife won the first round with the State Liquor Control Commission approving his application. However, the city filed an appeal and the hearing process is still underway.