Chances will get its second chance for an expanded liquor licence on Feb. 19 after a deadlocked city council vote left the matter in limbo.

A public hearing was held Jan. 22 to discuss the application by the owners of Chances Chilliwack gaming centre for a liquor licence amendment to allow for patron participation in The Well restaurant.

The owners of Friendly Mike's, Corky's Irish Pub and the Jolly Miller all submitted letters of concern or opposition to the application.

Both Friendly Mike's general manager John Toussaint and Corky's owner Bob Harms addressed council with their concerns about the licence change, which they say causes unfair competition.

Concern was expressed by Mayor Sharon Gaetz-who supported the application-that The Well's advertising already made it sound like a pub, which it is not.

There was also an issue with the fact that the applicant said The Well was a member of Bar Watch, something Bar Watch's chairperson told council was not true.

After spirited discussion at the Jan. 22 meeting, Couns. Ken Huttema, Chuck Stam and Ken Popove voted to deny the application while Couns. Jason Lum, Stewart McLean and Mayor Sharon Gaetz voted to approve.

Coun. Sue Attrill was absent. The tie votes meant both the motion to approve and the motion to deny were defeated.

Now, in accordance with section 131 of the Community Charter and Section 922 of the Local Government Act, the city will reconsider the liquor licence amendment application for The Well on Feb. 19 at 7 p.m.

phenderson@chilliwacktimes.com