Fargo looking to conduct background checks on new managers of businesses that serve alcohol

(Fargo, ND) -- Fargo's Liquor Control Board is aiming to change how they conduct background checks for businesses in the city.

If approved, it would require new managers, in addition to owners of the business, to submit to background checks to check for previous felonies. The proposal led to concern from Commissioner John Strand, who worried the rule would place an unnecessary burden on bars and restaurants who have decided to hire the now-investigated employee.

"I just don't want to see it so black-and-white that somebody who's had a previous felony is immediately scarlet-lettered, "said Commissioner Strand.

"100%, [I] understand, and that is not what we do it now. It would be the same process with this body as the appeal body," said Police Chief Dave Zibolski.

 The proposal is expected to be voted on in the next commission meeting.