LA PLATA, Md. — A request by Port Tobacco Marina Ship’s Store to expand alcohol service and host live music in an outdoor waterfront area was denied Thursday, April 9, 2026, by the Charles County Board of License Commissioners after officials raised concerns over safety, infrastructure and compliance.
The request, submitted by Kaitlyn C. Sandy and Jason D. Ruiz of Second Generation LLC, trading as Port Tobacco Marina Ship’s Store, sought approval to expand the licensed premises to allow live music and alcohol service in a designated outdoor area at 7610 Shirley Blvd. in Port Tobacco.
The business currently holds an on- and off-sale alcohol license for the existing ship store, and the request sought to extend that license to the proposed outdoor area.
According to the proposal, the business planned to create a designated outdoor space with picnic tables, fencing, security and ID checks, along with a temporary bar setup.
“We’re trying to turn that into like a little sand area,” Sandy said. “We would like to have a temporary bar out there, like a little tiki bar.”
Board member Michelle Jones questioned the proposal, focusing on the lack of infrastructure and the proximity to the existing restaurant.
“So we’re talking about a small piece of land right next to the river with porta potties, picnic tables and coolers?” Jones asked.
“There’s a restaurant with all of those things right next door,” she said. “It’s got bathrooms, and it’s got electricity, and it’s got all the approvals that we need.”
Sandy told the board the nearby Port Tobacco Marina Restaurant has been trying to move away from hosting live music due to damage caused during past events.
After discussion, the board determined the proposal did not meet the necessary standards, citing concerns about infrastructure, safety, and how the outdoor area would be managed under existing licensing requirements.
“I just don’t think this is going to work,” Jones said before making a motion to deny the request.
The motion to deny was approved without further discussion.
Port Tobacco Marina Ship’s Store is located at 7610 Shirley Blvd. in Port Tobacco and offers convenience items, snacks, beverages, boating supplies and alcohol sales for on- and off-site consumption.
Learn more at ptmshipstore.com.
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