Hempstead seeks to tighten cabaret rules

Hempstead Village officials are looking to tighten restrictions on cabaret license holders.

The village's board of trustees will vote at its meeting Tuesday at 6:30 p.m. on whether to add new grounds for the suspension or revocation of cabaret licenses. The village defines a cabaret as a place of business that provides any form of entertainment, including music, singing, dancing or amusement games.

Village officials say they want to be able to suspend or revoke a license, if a series of disturbances affect the "tranquillity of the village."

Another ground for suspension or revocation would be if a business violates any stipulation or condition imposed by the board upon granting or renewing the license.

The board held a public hearing on Jan. 3 about amending the village code.

The current law allows the village to suspend or revoke a license for fraud, misrepresentation or false statement made in the course of carrying on any business or activity that is licensed. The law also mentions conviction of the licensee of any crime and conducting any business activity that breaches the peace or endangers the health, safety or general welfare of the public.

The village clerk has the authority to suspend any license granted by the village. A written notification must be sent to the licensee by mail. The board is then required to hold a hearing concerning the suspension. The board can then continue the suspension of the license for a period of time, or reinstate or revoke the license.

For more information, contact Village Hall at 516-489-3400.