Oregon Public Broadcasting

The state liquor regulator got an earful from central Oregon residents Monday.

Ethan Lindsey reports from Bend that bar owners and businesses believe they are being treated unfairly.

It may sound like a common complaint: local bar owners unhappy with liquor regulators.

But some central Oregon alcohol sellers say they’re being treated differently from bars in Portland and elsewhere.

And at a town hall meeting, business leaders requested an immediate change in staff and enforcement from the Oregon Liquor Control Commission.

Commission staff said most of the complaints stem from state laws which they have no control over.

Doug LaPlaca is the director of the visitor’s bureau. He says Bend's bars get closed too early and local concert venues must set up beer gardens.

Doug LaPlaca: “What is happening in Bend and central Oregon is not happening in other areas of the state.

At the town hall, city councilor Jodie Barram said Bend lost business and tourism from the liquor disputes.

LaPlaca and others say they are increasing the pressure – they now plan to involve state and congressional leaders.