The Dakota County Board voted unanimously Tuesday to waive annual liquor license fees in 2021 for bars, restaurants, golf courses and event venues as a way to help local businesses stay afloat during the pandemic, a county news release said.

The County Board was ready to approve liquor license applications on Tuesday from eight establishments when County Commissioner Mike Slavik proposed waiving the license fees, which cost $4,105 each.

The change applies only to establishments in townships, since the county is in charge of issuing those licenses. Cities issue liquor licenses to business located within their boundaries, though commissioners said several Dakota County cities may decide to waive fees, too.