License Commission — June 11, 2026

The Secretary called for the acceptance of the May 28th meeting minutes.

The minutes were approved via motion by Commissioner Krieger and second by Commissioner Murcia.

The applications included a ratification for an alumni reception that already occurred on June 5th and a new request for a Windstar Industrial Advisory Board reception on June 16th. Commissioner Krieger questioned why the first event required ratification, and the applicant explained a change in the event's beverage service structure.

The Commission approved both licenses.

The Commission inquired about managing underage drinkers at the youth center. The applicant explained that the food, music, and alcohol would be kept on one side of the building, while children's activities would be on the other. The Police Captain confirmed there have been no prior issues.

The licenses and permits were approved.

The applicant described the events as small gatherings of approximately 12 people from a church for singing and speaking. A Commissioner asked if a city sidewalk permit was required; the Secretary confirmed only amplification permits were necessary.

The permits were approved.

The applicant noted the graduation event would host about 100 people and the religious rally would host about 200 people per day over three days. The Commission confirmed all bartenders are TIP certified.

The licenses were approved.

This is the first time this specific block party is being held, with an expected attendance of 700 people. The applicant confirmed they would have four TIP-certified bartenders.

The license was approved.

The applicant explained that the change was necessary because the previous president had passed away.

The change of officers and manager was approved.

Counsel for the applicant explained the move from Lawrence Street to Rogers Street, noting the new location would be a convenience store with 200-300 sq ft dedicated to alcohol. They highlighted the use of ID scanners and provided 60 signatures of support. Two residents spoke in favor of the move during the public hearing.

The transfer, change of location, and appointment of the manager were approved.

The Commission expressed significant concern regarding the difficulty of managing a nightclub on a third floor, citing previous issues with the former tenant. The Police Captain addressed safety concerns by identifying a second stairwell for staff and police use and noted the availability of security cameras. The applicant promised to keep the stairwells and hallways clear of debris and promised to employ a security detail.

The license was approved following the public hearing.

The Commission voted to schedule the hearing for the next meeting.

A public hearing was scheduled for June 25th, 2026.

Public hearing on June 25th, 2026.

The Commission voted to schedule the hearing for the next meeting.

A public hearing was scheduled for June 25th, 2026.

Public hearing on June 25th, 2026.

Counsel advised the Commission that its regulatory power over auto dealers is limited compared to alcohol licensees and noted that the complainant had already filed with the Attorney General's Office. The Commission discussed whether the matter was within their jurisdiction.

The Commission voted to place the matter on file and take no further action.

Counsel explained the law is a pilot program (Bill 5478) that allows municipalities to designate public areas for alcohol consumption and extend closing times by one hour, potentially in response to events like the FIFA World Cup. Commissioners raised questions about how areas would be controlled (e.g., fencing) and the feasibility of implementing such a program within a month. There was discussion about whether it would be easier to simply extend hours citywide.

The Commission voted to schedule a public hearing to gather public input.

Public hearing on June 25th, 2026.

The attorney for Outback Steakhouse clarified that this was a record-keeping transaction involving the removal of two managers and the appointment of OSI Restaurant Partners as the sole LLC manager, with no operational changes expected.

The change was approved.