LICENSES COMMITTEE

City Hall City of Milwaukee 200 East Wells Street Milwaukee, WI 53202 Meeting Minutes LICENSES COMMITTEE ALD. MILELE A. COGGS, CHAIR Ald. Mark A. Borkowski, VICE-CHAIR Ald. Jose G. Perez, Ald. Jonathan Brostoff, and Ald. Mark Chambers Staff Assistant, Yadira Melendez, 414-286-2775 Fax: 414-286-3456, Yadira.Melendez@milwaukee.gov Legislative Liaison, Jeffrey Osterman, 414-286-2262, joster@milwaukee.gov Tuesday, March 7, 2023 9:00 AM City Hall, Room 301-B The meeting convened at 9:25 am. Present 5 - Coggs, Borkowski, Brostoff, Chambers Jr., Murphy Excused 1 - Perez 221741 Motion relating to the recommendations of the Licenses Committee relative to licenses. Sponsors: THE CHAIR 09 PATTERSON, Athray L, Agent for "EXOTIC BLENDS CIGAR LOUNGE LLC", Class B Tavern, Food Dealer and Public Entertainment Premises License Applications Requesting Instrumental Musicians, Disc Jockey, Bands, Karaoke, Poetry Readings, Patrons Dancing and 1 Pool Table for "EXOTIC BLENDS CIGAR LOUNGE" at 8320 W BEATRICE Ct. The applicant was present. Individuals also present: Ald. Borkowski moved approval. There were no objections. (Prevailed 5-0) Ald. Coggs said that this application has moved forward because the applicant has been approved by the Grandville Advisory Committee first. A motion was made by ALD. BORKOWSKI that this Motion be AMENDED. This motion PREVAILED by the following vote: Aye 5- Coggs, Borkowski, Brostoff, Chambers Jr., and Murphy No 0 Excused 1- Perez 14 PASCHAL, Mark R, Agent for "BAY STREET PUB, LLC", Class B Tavern, Public Entertainment Premises and Food Dealer License Renewal Applications for "BAY STREET PUB" at 338 E BAY St. (Expires 4/14/2023) City of Milwaukee Page 1 LICENSES COMMITTEE Meeting Minutes March 7, 2023 The applicant was present and said that 2023 will be the 20th year in the business and that he lives above the bar. He explained the situation of the first two items of the police report and for the third one he said that, it was an incident which he knows is a mistake he made. Individuals also present: Ald. Dimitrijevic said that she received a neighbor complaint regarding the activity on the adjacent parking lot. The applicant said that there is no parking adjacent to the building but across the street and that it belongs to the tattoo parlor. Ald. Dimitrijevic asked if the e-mail is part of the record. Mr. Cooney said that it was and read the e-mail. Ald. Dimitrijevic asked the applicant if he had something to say about the neighbor’s complaint. The applicant said that he is not aware about shootings and that the incident that neighbor is talking about, is not related to his business. He also said that he has surveillance cameras around the premises. Ald. Dimitrijevic asked what the policy for weapons is. The applicant said that no weapons are not allowed. Ald. Coggs asked if there is a sign posted. The applicant said that he does not have a sign posted. The applicant said that he is trying to run a clean business and the he will post a "no weapons allowed" sign. Ald. Murphy moved approval with a warning letter based upon the preponderance of the evidence in the police report. There were no objections. (Prevailed 5-0) A motion was made by ALD. MURPHY that this Motion be AMENDED. This motion PREVAILED by the following vote: Aye 5- Coggs, Borkowski, Brostoff, Chambers Jr., and Murphy No 0 Excused 1- Perez 02 SINGH, Paramjit, Agent for "Villard Food Mart, Inc", Extended Hours Establishments, Filling Station, Food Dealer and Weights & Measures License Renewal Applications for "Villard Food Mart" at 5168-70 N 76th St. (Expired 2/10/2023) The applicant was present along with Atty. Obviagele. Atty. Obviagele said that his client was a victim of the incident on the police report and that he has met with the police to continue working on safety issues. He added that the police has suggested increasing the number of surveillance cameras and that they are in the process to be installed. Individuals also present: Ald. Chambers said that he did a walk through with the applicant because there is a lot of illegal activity on the area that has nothing to do with the business but that he is working on how to address that activity. He added that those cameras will help the police too. Ald. Chambers moved approval. There were no objections. (Prevailed 5-0) A motion was made by ALD. CHAMBERS JR. that this Motion be AMENDED. This motion PREVAILED by the following vote: Aye 5- Coggs, Borkowski, Brostoff, Chambers Jr., and Murphy No 0 Excused 1- Perez City of Milwaukee Page 2 LICENSES COMMITTEE Meeting Minutes March 7, 2023 03 CIMBRON, Linda M, Agent for "WISCONSIN CVS PHARMACY, LLC", Food Dealer and Weights & Measures License Renewal Applications for "CVS PHARMACY #8763" at 1650 N FARWELL Av. (Expired 2/23/2023) Atty. Larry Cohen was present on behalf of the applicant. Individuals in opposition: Carol Christensen – 1660 N Prospect Av – said that the outdoors are flooded with garbage and that the landscaping needs attention as well. She added that the cement on the sidewalk is broken and that it is hard to walk with a walker. She also said that the store is filthy in general. Atty. Cohen said that he will need to forward these comments to the corporate offices. Ald. Brostoff wanted to point out that there are 2 different complaints and asked Ms. Christensen if she has received a follow up. Ms. Christensen said that she has spoken to the staff about all the issues but no follow ups. Ald. Borkowski said that he is disappointed about Atty. Cohen’s response because it is the business responsibility to keep the store clean and customer friendly. Ald. Brostoff asked Atty. Cohen to follow up with Ms. Christensen and that he would like to be part of that conversation as well. He also pointed out to Atty. Cohen the lack of snow removal, excess of littering and that the store is not accessible. Atty. Cohen said that he takes these complaints very seriously and that he will definitely address these issues. Ald. Brostoff moved approval. There were no objections. (Prevailed 3-1-1) A motion was made by ALD. BROSTOFF that this Motion be AMENDED. This motion PREVAILED by the following vote: Aye 5- Coggs, Borkowski, Brostoff, Chambers Jr., and Murphy No 0 Excused 1- Perez 03 TUZHILKOV, Slava, Agent for "LANDMARK BARS, INC", Class B Tavern, Public Entertainment Premises and Food Dealer License Renewal Applications for "LANDMARK LANES" at 2220 N FARWELL Av. (Expires 4/12/2023) The applicant was present and said that the bartender made a mistake selling beer to an underage kid. He also said that regarding the overdose issue, that he is not sure what to do on those situations. He added that he got the video footage available for the police but that it was never picked up. He also said that he has unruly customers here and there, but that they take care of them. Individuals also present: Ald. Brostoff asked the applicant for a clarification on how the staff seemed not interested in assisting on the overdose situation. The applicant said that he does not what exactly it means because those situations are supposed to be addressed by the professionals and that they did call for help. Ald. Brostoff said that this business has been around for many years and with no issues at the license checks. Ald. Brostoff moved approval with a warning letter based upon the preponderance of the evidence in the police report. There were no objections. (Prevailed 5-0) A motion was made by ALD. BROSTOFF that this Motion be AMENDED. This motion PREVAILED by the following vote: Aye 5- Coggs, Borkowski, Brostoff, Chambers Jr., and Murphy City of Milwaukee Page 3 LICENSES COMMITTEE Meeting Minutes March 7, 2023 No 0 Excused 1- Perez 08 KENNEDY, Sean M, Agent for "SKCO, LLC - National", Extended Hours Establishments License Application Requesting To Open 24 Hours/Sun - Sat for "McDonald's" at 2520 W National Av. The applicant was present along with Atty. Maistelman. Atty. Maistelman said that they want to amend the application by closing the drive thru at midnight and that it won’t be open to the public at all. He added that they will be open only for delivery services and that they will take care of the drivers. Individuals also present: Ald. Zamarripa said that she is not in support of the original application and that she wished that she was contacted before for the amendment that was just mentioned by Atty. Maistelman. Mr. Cooney said that the amendment can be done at the table and that a motion will be needed. The applicant explained that he is positive that Mc Donald’s have the proper signage for "closed to the public" and, that it is his intention to have a window where delivery drivers check in. Ald. Chambers moved approval to close at midnight for the general public and open 24 hours for delivery partners only. There were no objections. Ald. Murphy asked the applicant how he is planning to address the regular customers even if the signage is up but the lights are on, and upset for not receiving the service. The applicant said that he will have the lights of the lobby off, that the noise will be addressed and that he will send a notification to the company offering the delivery service in order to ban drivers that do not follow directions. He added that the staff will be trained to address the after hours customers. Ald. Murphy suggested Mr. Kennedy continuing working with the Ald. Zamarripa after he shared the sales amount expected during the late hours. Ald. Brostoff asked why Ald. Zamarripa was not contacted prior this meeting. Atty. Maistelman said that there was not a follow up from their end. Ald. Chambers moved approval as amended. There were no objections. (Prevailed 5-0) A motion was made by ALD. CHAMBERS JR. that this Motion be AMENDED. This motion PREVAILED by the following vote: Aye 5- Coggs, Borkowski, Brostoff, Chambers Jr., and Murphy No 0 Excused 1- Perez 08 CAMACHO, Maria Y, Agent for "MS. YESENIA'S CREATIVE STUDIO LLC", Class B Tavern (Beer and Wine Only), Public Entertainment Premises and Food Dealer License Applications Requesting Instrumental Musicians, Disc Jockey, Poetry Readings, Comedy Acts and Dancing by Performers for "MS. YESENIA'S CREATIVE STUDIO" at 2926 W FOREST HOME Av. The applicant was present. Individuals in support: Marco Camacho – 2926 W Forest Home Av – said that he is here to support his wife. Brian Bauman - 2934 W Forest Home Av – he said he is a neighbor and that his business is in the same building and that he is here in support. Elizabeth Ramirez – was not able to speak due technical difficulties. Cynthia Tellez – CDC - 1545 S Layton Blvd – said that she has been working with the City of Milwaukee Page 4 LICENSES COMMITTEE Meeting Minutes March 7, 2023 applicant on the process and that she is here to support the applicant in any way they need. The applicant said that she is trying to open a café with an art studio, that she is a dancer by trade, that she has been working for MPS and, that she is a mother now who wants to have a space for youth programing and where parents can also join them. Individuals also present: Ald. Zamarripa said that she appreciates the tenacity of the applicant to pursue this project. She added that she is in support of the coffee shop (as it was presented to her) with the beer and wine only just to help the business to flourish. Ald. Brostoff moved approval. There were no objections. (Prevailed 5-0) A motion was made by ALD. BROSTOFF that this Motion be AMENDED. This motion PREVAILED by the following vote: Aye 5- Coggs, Borkowski, Brostoff, Chambers Jr., and Murphy No 0 Excused 1- Perez 15 DENSON, Djdade, Agent for "Thurman Enterprises, Inc.", Class B Tavern and Public Entertainment Premises License Applications Requesting Bands, Poetry Readings and 3 Concerts per Year for "Coffee Makes You Black" at 2803 N Teutonia Av. The applicant was present. Individuals also present: Mr. Ellzey from the 15th district’s office said that Ald. Stamper supports this application. Ald. Chambers moved approval. There were no objections. (Prevailed 5-0) A motion was made by ALD. CHAMBERS JR. that this Motion be AMENDED. This motion PREVAILED by the following vote: Aye 5- Coggs, Borkowski, Brostoff, Chambers Jr., and Murphy No 0 Excused 1- Perez 04 CASTELAZ, Ryan S, Agent for "Discourse Coffee, LLC", Class B Tavern, Permanent Extension of Premises for Food, Sidewalk Dining and Public Entertainment Premises License Applications Requesting Instrumental Musicians, Disc Jockey, Bands, Karaoke, Poetry Readings, Patrons Contests, 12 Concerts/Year, Comedy Acts, Dancing by Performers and Patrons Dancing for "Discourse Coffee" at 1020 N BROADWAY. The applicant was present and said that the item on the police report has been addressed and updated. The applicant said that he is looking to expand the types of entertainment. Individuals also present: Ald. Bauman said that he has no problem. Ald. Borkowski moved approval. There were no objections. (Prevailed 5-0) A motion was made by ALD. BORKOWSKI that this Motion be AMENDED. This motion PREVAILED by the following vote: Aye 5- Coggs, Borkowski, Brostoff, Chambers Jr., and Murphy City of Milwaukee Page 5 LICENSES COMMITTEE Meeting Minutes March 7, 2023 No 0 Excused 1- Perez 04 BERES, Rebecca, Agent for "LOCAL PUB LLC", Class B Tavern, Public Entertainment Premises, Food Dealer and Sidewalk Dining License Applications Requesting Instrumental Musicians, Disc Jockey, 1 Motion Picture/Year, Bands, Karaoke and Poetry Readings for "LP MKE" at 1137 N MARTIN L KING JR DR. The applicant was present. Individuals also present: Ald. Bauman said that this location had a homicide few years ago that made the business closed down. He also said that he wants to know how these new operators are going to address the crowds and the previous record on file because they did not hold a meeting to discuss the application. The applicant said that they are not associated with the previous operator. Ald. Bauman asked if the applicant has experience in the business. The applicant said she has experience and that she won’t be the day-to-day operations manager and that each of the partners hold less than 20% of the stocks answering Ald. Bauman’s questions. Ald. Bauman said that he wants to make sure that the owners are not the same as before and that he would like to hold the application to get to know more about the application. Ald. Brostoff moved to hold the application to the call of chair. There were no objections. (Prevailed 5-0) A motion was made by ALD. BROSTOFF that this Motion be HELD TO CALL OF THE CHAIR. This motion PREVAILED by the following vote: Aye 5- Coggs, Borkowski, Brostoff, Chambers Jr., and Murphy No 0 Excused 1- Perez 04 WAIS, Joseph A, Agent for "PILOT PROJECT BREWING MILWAUKEE, LLC", Class B Tavern for Wine Only and Food Permanent Extension License Applications for "PILOT PROJECT BREWING" at 1128 N 9th St. The applicant was present. Individuals also present: Ald. Bauman said that he has no objections. Ald. Chambers moved approval. There were no objections. (Prevailed 5-0) A motion was made by ALD. CHAMBERS JR. that this Motion be AMENDED. This motion PREVAILED by the following vote: Aye 5- Coggs, Borkowski, Brostoff, Chambers Jr., and Murphy No 0 Excused 1- Perez 04 WHITE, Michael H, Agent for "MWF, LLC", Permanent Extension of Premise Application for Alcohol for "SUMMERFEST" at 100-200 N HARBOR DR. Atty. Mary Schanning appeared on behalf of the applicant. Individuals also present: Ald. Bauman asked Mr. Cooney to give an explanation about the application details. City of Milwaukee Page 6 LICENSES COMMITTEE Meeting Minutes March 7, 2023 Mr. Cooney said that the MWF, LLC holds the Class B Tavern license and that they are trying to expand the alcohol sales to the BMO Harris Pavilion and other parts of the grounds. He added that they have applied for temporary permits in the past. Ald. Bauman said that the BMO Harris pavilion faces most of the apartment buildings and that the noise (from concerts off from the Summerfest window) is an issue for the neighbors. He added that another apartment building is being built even closer to the grounds and that something needs to be done in regards of the dates (for school and work days) and to keep the residents and investors happy. Ald. Brostoff said that we are looking to balance the noise issue and complaints from neighbors. Atty. Schanning said that they are not trying to change anything on the plan of operations but to apply formally for what has been done with temporary permits. Sarah Smith Pancheri – President - said that they want to be as mindful as possible and that they want to secure jobs with those additional concert dates. She added that they want to put up a platform to have an active dialog with the neighbors about parking, hours for concerts, but that they want to work with the neighbors to move forward. Jason Stuewe, - VP Planning and Development – was also present. Ald. Murphy moved approval. There were no objections. (Prevailed 5-0) A motion was made by ALD. MURPHY that this Motion be AMENDED. This motion PREVAILED by the following vote: Aye 5- Coggs, Borkowski, Brostoff, Chambers Jr., and Murphy No 0 Excused 1- Perez 06 HALLIDAY, Susan M, Agent for "WALGREEN CO", Food Dealer License Renewal Application for "WALGREENS #12783" at 2826 N MARTIN L KING JR DR. (Expires 3/21/2023) Atty. Sara Butler appeared on behalf of the applicant and said that she does not have details about the arrangement. Individuals also present: Ald. Coggs said that she supports the renewal and that she will leave the item on the police report open for the next license period. She added that the area is not cleaned on a daily basis and, that she wants to see a clean-up plan coming forward. Ald. Chambers moved approval. There were no objections. (Prevailed 5-0) A motion was made by ALD. CHAMBERS JR. that this Motion be AMENDED. This motion PREVAILED by the following vote: Aye 5- Coggs, Borkowski, Brostoff, Chambers Jr., and Murphy No 0 Excused 1- Perez 06 JACKSON, Dwight A, Agent for "Pepperpot on MLK, LLC", Class B Tavern, Food Dealer License Renewal Applications and Public Entertainment Premises License Application Requesting Instrumental Musicians, Disc Jockey, Bands, Karaoke and Comedy Acts for "Pepperpot on MLK" at 2215 N MARTIN L KING JR DR. (Expires 3/23/2023) The applicant was present. Individuals also present: Ald. Coggs said that she has not received any objections or complaints with the City of Milwaukee Page 7 LICENSES COMMITTEE Meeting Minutes March 7, 2023 temporary permits for public entertainment issued last year. Ald. Borkowski moved approval. There were no objections. (Prevailed 5-0) A motion was made by ALD. BORKOWSKI that this Motion be AMENDED. This motion PREVAILED by the following vote: Aye 5- Coggs, Borkowski, Brostoff, Chambers Jr., and Murphy No 0 Excused 1- Perez 06 ACKERS, Evan A, Agent for "JUNEAU ROOFTOP RESTAURANT LLC", Class B Tavern and Food Dealer License Applications for "Il Cervo" at 420 W JUNEAU AV 9th FLOOR & ROOFTOP. The applicant was present. Individuals also present: Ald. Coggs said that she has no objections. Ald. Borkowski moved approval. There were no objections. (Prevailed 5-0) A motion was made by ALD. BORKOWSKI that this Motion be AMENDED. This motion PREVAILED by the following vote: Aye 5- Coggs, Borkowski, Brostoff, Chambers Jr., and Murphy No 0 Excused 1- Perez 06 SINGH, Gurcharan, Agent for "Y&A LLC", Class A Malt & Class A Liquor, Food Dealer and Weights & Measures License Renewal Applications for "Mothers Food and Liquor" at 2438 W Hopkins St. (Expired 2/28/2023) The applicant was present and said that he cooperated with the police regarding the incident on the police report. Individuals also present: Ald. Coggs said that she has no objections. Ald. Chambers moved approval. There were no objections. (Prevailed 5-0) A motion was made by ALD. CHAMBERS JR. that this Motion be AMENDED. This motion PREVAILED by the following vote: Aye 5- Coggs, Borkowski, Brostoff, Chambers Jr., and Murphy No 0 Excused 1- Perez 06 JORDAN, Jimmy D, Class B Tavern, Public Entertainment Premises and Food Dealer License Renewal Applications for "GLASS SLIPPER" at 3250 N 2ND St. (Expires 3/22/2023) The applicant was present. Ald. Murphy moved to hold the application to the call of the chair while Sgt. Velasquez retrieves the updated police report. There were no objections. Ald. Chambers moved to reconsider the application at 11:55 am. There were no objections. Sgt. Velasquez read the police report. The applicant said that they heard shots which occurred 50 yards from the bar and, that he does not remember much about it. City of Milwaukee Page 8 LICENSES COMMITTEE Meeting Minutes March 7, 2023 Ald. Coggs said that she is concerned about the incidents and that she would like to leave item 9. open. Ald. Borkowski moved approval leaving item 9. open. There were no objections. (Prevailed 5-0) A motion was made by ALD. BORKOWSKI that this Motion be AMENDED. This motion PREVAILED by the following vote: Aye 5- Coggs, Borkowski, Brostoff, Chambers Jr., and Murphy No 0 Excused 1- Perez 06 ROSS, Samuel D, Agent for "S-N-I Live Entertainment LLC", Class B Tavern and Public Entertainment Premises License Applications Requesting Instrumental Musicians, Disc Jockey, Jukebox, 1 Dart Board, Bands, Karaoke, 3 Amusement Machines, Poetry Readings, Patrons Contests, Comedy Acts, Patrons Dancing and 1 Pool table for "S-N-I Live" at 2221 N HUMBOLDT Av. The applicant was present. Individuals in objection: Rich Steenwyk - 2203 N Weil St – said that the applicant should have been commanded to hold a neighborhood meeting prior the hearing and, that he opposes to the use of the rear patio and to the late hours that have been an issue in the past. He added that they have been made empty promises by previous operators and that he wants the applicant to build trust first. Ald. Brostoff asked what changes he wants to see. The witness said that these changes are the use of the rear patio and to close at midnight in order to establish the trust first. Ald. Coggs asked the applicant if he is willing to consider the neighbor’s request. The applicant said that he is willing to close at 12AM Sun – Thu and; at 1AM on Fri & Sat. Ald. Chambers moved to amend the hours of operations to close at 12AM Sun – Thu and; at 1AM on Fri & Sat. There were no objections. Ald. Brostoff moved to amend the plan of operations to no amplified sound on the rear patio and to leave it open for smoking only and, that it will be closed an hour an half earlier. There were no objections. Ald. Coggs said that other aspect brought by the neighbors was the cleaning procedure. Mr. Cooney said that it is going to be done daily per the plan of operations. Ald. Coggs said that it is her custom to have temporary permits for the types of entertainment in order to see that the applicant is capable to handle the business properly and that she won’t be supportive to approve everything at once. Ald. Coggs asked to hold the disc jockey and patrons dancing. Individuals in support: Homer Blow – 203 W Capitol Dr – said that the applicant is a great business and property owner and that he has shown him over the years that he is good person as a whole and by amending the application for the neighbors. Ald. Coggs said that the previous operators have felt short on delivering the promises to the neighbors and that she appreciates the amendments made at the table. Ald. Borkowski moved approval as amended. There were no objections. (Prevailed 5-0) A motion was made by ALD. BORKOWSKI that this Motion be AMENDED. This motion PREVAILED by the following vote: Aye 5- Coggs, Borkowski, Brostoff, Chambers Jr., and Murphy City of Milwaukee Page 9 LICENSES COMMITTEE Meeting Minutes March 7, 2023 No 0 Excused 1- Perez 06 SYDOW, Kristian E, Agent for "AVLI MILWAUKEE LLC", Class B Tavern, Public Entertainment Premises and Food Dealer License Applications Requesting Instrumental Musicians, Disc Jockey and Comedy Acts for "AVLI INSPIRED GREEK" at 1818 N HUBBARD St. The applicant was present. Individuals in opposition: Glen Givens - 244 E Vine St – said that the building was a bad idea since the beginning because patrons have been throwing garbage, fights, slamming doors and, that late hours and entertainment are not a good fit for the premises because it is on a residential neighborhood. Ald. Murphy asked the witness if he supports only the restaurant and the alcohol applications Mr. Givens said that he does support the restaurant-bar application. Ald. Murphy asked the applicant if they are willing to amend the application. The applicant said that they have a number of concerns that were raised at the neighborhood meeting and that they will address those. Ald. Murphy moved to hold the public entertainment premises application. There were no objections. Ald. Coggs said that she is willing to sign temporary permits for public entertainment only if there are no neighbors’ complaints. Mr. William (Bill) Glastris (partner) said that they own and operate 4 restaurants in the Chicago area for more than 10 years and that they were asked to come to Milwaukee by a Greek sports figure in the area. He added that they are committed to the neighbors because problems with neighbors are bad business. Marie Ulsberger - 216 E Vine St – said that cleaning the street, parking and the noise are issues that have affected their lives. She added that they have lived there for 34 years and that they invested there because it was a quiet area. Ald. Brostoff asked Ms. Ulsberger if she is fine with the restaurant-bar operation. The applicant said that he will share a telephone number with the neighbors. Ms. Ulsberger said that she is fine with the restaurant-bar operation but not during late hours. Ald. Brostoff asked the applicant if he is willing to have a point of contact with the neighbors. Mr. Wolf - 1805 N Hubbard St – said that he is just looking at the hours of operation to work along with the other businesses and that he is not opposed to the business. Ald. Coggs asked the applicant if they are willing to amend the hours of operation. The applicant said that they are not willing to do so. Kristi Maso – 1801 N Commerce St – said that she is only opposed to the late hours if they are truly a family restaurant and that the area is not to hold business with those types of entertainment. She added that she is concerned about the parking, the noise, etc. Mr. Glastris said that the types of entertainment are more for celebrations that customers request for weddings and other private events. Individuals in support: Manuel Torres – 1801 N Commerce St. – said that he has gotten to know the owners, that they have a good business model and that there will be a restaurant eventually and that he is literally 30 feet from their patio. Robert Neville – 1801 N Commerce St - he said that the neighborhood meeting is what made him appear here today and, that this company deserves the chance just like the previous operators and, that the business experience in Chicago cannot be different from our area. City of Milwaukee Page 10 LICENSES COMMITTEE Meeting Minutes March 7, 2023 The applicant said that they have been working on the plan for 2 years and that himself is a real estate broker who has landed 50 restaurants in the area. He added that this is a multimillion dollar operation and that they have reached out to neighbors, stakeholders and neighborhood associations. He added that they have addressed most of the concerns except for the hours of operations. Ald. Chambers moved to amend the application for no patio music after 10PM Sun – Sat. There were no objections. Ald. Brostoff moved to amend the hours of operation to Sun – Thu at 12AM and; Fri & Sat at 1AM. There were no objections. Ald. Coggs said that everything that they have addressed with the neighbors give her the willingness to give them the opportunity. Ald. Brostoff moved to adopt the e-mail sent earlier as part of the plan of operation as follows: • We’ll complete entertainment requests on a per event basis up to 20 events annually, with the understanding of that Avli will be applying for this entertainment license being applied for after the 1st year provided there have been no significant issues. • We have sourced a site for off-street parking and will continue to move forward to arrange customer parking on that site provided we get our licensing approved. • We’ve committed to providing direct contact via email and phone to GM/Operations partner for any/all neighborhood matters. • We’ll commit to our daily work checklist to have an Avli team member walk the area in front of our restaurant to pick up garbage from any business and dispose to keep the street and sidewalk clean. • We’ll commit to securing our dumpsters so there is no concern of public dumping. • We’ll add cameras to a few areas of the building to ensure safety to the property and neighborhood. • We’ll add lighting to the building to brighten the area for safety. • We’ll add fundamental elements to the patio to reduce noise pollution. There were no objections. Ald. Murphy moved approval as amended. There were no objections. (Prevailed 5-0) A motion was made by ALD. MURPHY that this Motion be AMENDED. This motion PREVAILED by the following vote: Aye 5- Coggs, Borkowski, Brostoff, Chambers Jr., and Murphy No 0 Excused 1- Perez 06 DICKERSON, Patrice, Agent for "Lounge 340, LLC", Class B Tavern, Public Entertainment Premises and Food Dealer License Renewal Applications for "Lounge 340, LLC" at 340 W Reservoir Av. (Expires 4/6/2023) The applicant was present. Individuals in opposition: William Meyers – 1846 W Reservoir Av – he said that he has been organizing the complaints from the neighbors coming from this establishment. He added that on the last year and a half or so, they have noticed a dramatic uptake on disruptive and sometimes illegal behaviors from the patrons of the bar. He explained that these behaviors are drunkenness, altercations (one involved a firearm that was not discharged), garbage, illegal parking, carry out drinks, drinks brought by patrons, fights, loud crowds, engines, loud music, and subwoofers from the establishment and the patron’s vehicles, disposable plates and utensils disposed by the patrons on the street. He also said that he submitted evidence in a flash drive to the License Division. He mentioned too that the applicant makes events without reaching out to the neighbors and that she does not acknowledge any of the neighbors' concerns. City of Milwaukee Page 11 LICENSES COMMITTEE Meeting Minutes March 7, 2023 Ald. Brostoff asked Mr. Williams more specifics about the illegal behaviors. Mr. Williams mentioned two: one where an intoxicated patron tried to leave the bar and left the car in the middle of the intersection with the doors open. Then the friends or other patrons came out and started to yell, dance and blast music around the abandoned car. The second incident was about a brawl that came out of the bar during daylight hours on July 2nd where a gun was exposed. Caitlin Forsythe - 1846 N Vel R Phillips – said that the bar has exceeded the neighborhood and gave a description of the neighborhood which she said, is entirely residential. She added that even after the bar closes, the music can be heard and that there is people inside. She said that it is very sad to hear the police about no noise complaints when they have called all the time. She said that the excessive noise, the gathering outside and the garbage (bottles of liquor, disposable cups, used condoms) on top of the speeding are her major concerns. Ald. Borkowski said that looking at the pictures on the file, the advertisement used for this business appeals to a different crowd than what supposed to be. Mr. Williams said that when the bar first started, it was advertised as an intimate lounge where they could see 15 people or so and that it was fine. He added that now they can see 50 to 60 patrons partying at early hours and hanging outside. He said that he is also surprised that none of the calls made at the non-emergency numbers are documented. He also mentioned that they went to the police station on district 5 to file a complaint and that they never heard back from them. Garry Kelley- 1846 N Vel R Phillips – said that he supports what his neighbors have testified and that his two largest concerns are the lack of cleanliness around the neighborhood and that they have failed controlling and dispersing the crowd. He said that the situation is out of control. Jay Peters - 1839 N Vel R Phillips – said that he does not know anybody from the neighborhood who visits this bar, that people park on the wrong side of the streets, and that safety is a major concern. He added that he moved out of his property in 2019 and that he receives lots of complaints from his tenants about noise and safety. Christopher Bannard - 1846 N Vel R Phillips – he said that he supports all of the facts that have been brought up and documented by the neighbors. He also said that he understands the importance of economic development and successful businesses but that they cannot be in conflict. Jasmine Hietpass -1847 N Vel R Phillips – said that they have lived for 5 years now and that they have seen a built up pattern of no respect for the neighbors. She added that she does not know why the incidents that they have reported are not part of the police record. Father Michael Bertram – 1927 N Vel R Phillips – said that this is the third hearing that he is participating for this license and that he has never received any communication from the business in relationship to his complaints. He added that he does not support the renewal of the license and that he has called the police as well. Michael Morgan - 1846 N Vel R. Phillips – he agrees with everything what the neighbors said. Brandis Ohlsson – (former resident of 1839 N Vel R. Phillips) said that she left the neighborhood because of the problems with this bar and that it is going down the hill because these issues have not been addressed at all. The applicant had no questions for any of the witnesses. Individuals in support: Ms. Gates – 2249 N 5th St - she said that she is also a neighbor, that she is 52 years old and that she has not seen any of the things that the other neighbors have talked about. Shawn Moore – said that he is not a resident of the neighborhood but that he has been retained to address the issues that neighbors are talking about and that they are willing to work with the neighbors. Ald. Chambers asked Mr. Moore if he has met with the neighbors prior this meeting. Mr. Moore said that he has not because of the weather. City of Milwaukee Page 12 LICENSES COMMITTEE Meeting Minutes March 7, 2023 Ald. Coggs said that this is the year with the most and variety of concerns. She also said that she held a meeting last night and that some of the residents are tired while some are willing to hear about the plan that the attorney said he was going to make it a part of the record. Ald. Coggs requested that the application be held for a discussion and agreement of the plan. Ald. Chambers moved to hold the application to the call of the chair with the intention to hear from the new plan of operations. There were no objections. (Prevailed 5-0) A motion was made by ALD. CHAMBERS JR. that this Motion be HELD TO CALL OF THE CHAIR. This motion PREVAILED by the following vote: Aye 5- Coggs, Borkowski, Brostoff, Chambers Jr., and Murphy No 0 Excused 1- Perez CHAKERI, Dinesh Class D Operator’s License Renewal Application The applicant was not present. Ald. Brostoff moved to hold the application to the call of the chair for first nonappearance. There were no objections. (Prevailed 5-0) A motion was made by ALD. BROSTOFF that this Motion be HELD TO CALL OF THE CHAIR. This motion PREVAILED by the following vote: Aye 5- Coggs, Borkowski, Brostoff, Chambers Jr., and Murphy No 0 Excused 1- Perez GILBERT, LaFeshia M Class D Operator’s License Renewal Application The applicant was not present. Ald. Murphy moved to hold the application to the call of the chair for first nonappearance. There were no objections. (Prevailed 5-0) A motion was made by ALD. MURPHY that this Motion be HELD TO CALL OF THE CHAIR. This motion PREVAILED by the following vote: Aye 5- Coggs, Borkowski, Brostoff, Chambers Jr., and Murphy No 0 Excused 1- Perez LANDERS, Marcus L Class D Operator’s License Renewal Application The applicant was not present. Ald. Chambers moved denial based upon second nonappearance. There were no objections. (Prevailed 5-0) A motion was made by ALD. CHAMBERS JR. that this Motion be AMENDED. This motion PREVAILED by the following vote: Aye 5- Coggs, Borkowski, Brostoff, Chambers Jr., and Murphy No 0 Excused 1- Perez City of Milwaukee Page 13 LICENSES COMMITTEE Meeting Minutes March 7, 2023 PERRY, Deshon A Class D Operator’s License Renewal Application The applicant was present. Individuals also present: Ald. Chambers moved approval leaving the item on the police report open. There were no objections. (Prevailed 5-0) A motion was made by ALD. CHAMBERS JR. that this Motion be AMENDED. This motion PREVAILED by the following vote: Aye 5- Coggs, Borkowski, Brostoff, Chambers Jr., and Murphy No 0 Excused 1- Perez ROSS, Taranda S Class D Operator’s License Renewal Application The applicant was not present. Ald. Brostoff moved to hold the application to the call of the chair for first nonappearance. There were no objections. (Prevailed 5-0) A motion was made by ALD. BROSTOFF that this Motion be HELD TO CALL OF THE CHAIR. This motion PREVAILED by the following vote: Aye 5- Coggs, Borkowski, Brostoff, Chambers Jr., and Murphy No 0 Excused 1- Perez RUFFIN, Mironda F Class D Operator’s License Renewal Application The applicant was not present. Ald. Murphy moved denial based upon second nonappearance. There were no objections. (Prevailed 5-0) A motion was made by ALD. MURPHY that this Motion be AMENDED. This motion PREVAILED by the following vote: Aye 5- Coggs, Borkowski, Brostoff, Chambers Jr., and Murphy No 0 Excused 1- Perez VANDERPOOL, Tracy A Class D Operator’s License Renewal Application The applicant was present. Individuals also present: Ald. Brostoff moved approval. There were no objections. (Prevailed 5-0) A motion was made by ALD. BROSTOFF that this Motion be AMENDED. This motion PREVAILED by the following vote: Aye 5- Coggs, Borkowski, Brostoff, Chambers Jr., and Murphy No 0 Excused 1- Perez STENNIS, Nadia Class D Operator’s License Application City of Milwaukee Page 14 LICENSES COMMITTEE Meeting Minutes March 7, 2023 The applicant was present. Individuals also present: Ald. Chambers moved approval. There were no objections. (Prevailed 5-0) A motion was made by ALD. CHAMBERS JR. that this Motion be AMENDED. This motion PREVAILED by the following vote: Aye 5- Coggs, Borkowski, Brostoff, Chambers Jr., and Murphy No 0 Excused 1- Perez 05 DUNCAN, Kimberly K, Agent for "Speedway LLC", Filling Station, Food Dealer and Weights & Measures License Renewal Applications with Change of Agent for "Speedway #4123" at 8431 W Appleton Av. (Expires 3/7/2023) The applicant was present along with Atty. Bryan Randall and said that the cleanup plan in place has not been effective and that the team will be working on a new one. Individuals also present: Ald. Chambers said that this location is across the street from his district and that neighbors complaint about the littering and that it must be addressed. Mr. Cooney said that there is a litter plan in place which is pick up trash, sweeping and pressure washing on a daily basis. Atty. Randall said that the daily pressure washing is not a regular practice for businesses but as needed instead. He also said that cleanups twice a day are possible. Ald. Chambers moved to amend the plan of operations for cleanups and sweeping twice a day. There were no objections. Ald. Chambers moved approval as amended. There were no objections. (Prevailed 5-0) A motion was made by ALD. CHAMBERS JR. that this Motion be AMENDED. This motion PREVAILED by the following vote: Aye 5- Coggs, Borkowski, Brostoff, Chambers Jr., and Murphy No 0 Excused 1- Perez 12 DUNCAN, Kimberly K, Agent for "SPEEDWAY, LLC", Filling Station, Food Dealer and Weights & Measures License Renewal Applications with Change of Agent for "SPEEDWAY #4027" at 907 W GREENFIELD Av. (Expired 2/28/2023) The applicant was present along with Atty. Bryan Randall and said that they have some concerns about littering as well and that she discussed it with Ms. Murillo this morning. He added that the company have an emergency and no emergency number to report incidents and, that they will meet with the alderman’s office and police to address the illegal activity around the business. Individuals also present: Ald. Brostoff asked Atty. Randall if he received the photos that were shared by Ms. Murillo. Atty. Randall said that he has seen the photos and that they have acknowledged that they have to do a better job plowing the snow among other things. Ald. Brostoff moved to amend the plan of operations for cleanups twice daily. There were no objections. Ald. Brostoff moved approval as amended. There were no objections. (Prevailed 5-0) City of Milwaukee Page 15 LICENSES COMMITTEE Meeting Minutes March 7, 2023 A motion was made by ALD. BROSTOFF that this Motion be AMENDED. This motion PREVAILED by the following vote: Aye 5- Coggs, Borkowski, Brostoff, Chambers Jr., and Murphy No 0 Excused 1- Perez 12 LEVIN, Robert M, Agent for "1033A LLC", Class B Tavern and Food Dealer License Applications for "1033" at 1033 S 1ST St. The applicant was present. Individuals in opposition: Anne Dent – 224 W Washington St #106 – she said that she is opposed to the alcohol license due saturation in the area and the parking issues. Bryan Zysk – 224 W Washington St – he said that he already has issues as a handicap pedestrian and for saturation. He added that there are patrons on the streets and the level of noise in the neighborhood. Individuals also present: Ms. Murillo said that it is a concern for Ald. Perez when neighbors appear at the hearing. Ald. Brostoff said that saturation and concentration are issues to bring in consideration and that the application needs to be addressed at the neighborhood meeting. Ald. Brostoff moved to hold the application to the call of the chair. There were no objections. (Prevailed 5-0) A motion was made by ALD. BROSTOFF that this Motion be HELD TO CALL OF THE CHAIR. This motion PREVAILED by the following vote: Aye 5- Coggs, Borkowski, Brostoff, Chambers Jr., and Murphy No 0 Excused 1- Perez 12 RALSTON, Anthony J, Agent for "NORTHERN LIGHTS PHOTO STUDIO AND EVENTS LLC", Class B Tavern and Public Entertainment Premises License Applications Requesting Instrumental Musicians, Disc Jockey, Bands, Magic Performances, Karaoke, Comedy Acts, Dancing by Performers and Patrons Dancing for "NORTHERN LIGHTS PHOTO STUDIO AND EVENTS" at 106 W SEEBOTH St #103 &103A. The applicant was present and said that the venue is for small higher end events. Individuals also present: Ms. Murillo said that Ald. Perez has no objections. Ald. Brostoff moved approval. There were no objections. (Prevailed 5-0) A motion was made by ALD. BROSTOFF that this Motion be AMENDED. This motion PREVAILED by the following vote: Aye 5- Coggs, Borkowski, Brostoff, Chambers Jr., and Murphy No 0 Excused 1- Perez 12 ABDELRAHIM, Hanin K, Agent for "La Luna Liquor Taqueria LLC", Class B Tavern and Food Dealer License Applications for "La Luna Liquor Taqueria" at 552R City of Milwaukee Page 16 LICENSES COMMITTEE Meeting Minutes March 7, 2023 W MAPLE St. Atty. Vincent Bobot appeared on behalf of the applicant. Individuals also present: Ms. Murillo said that Ald. Perez has no objections. Ald. Borkowski moved approval. There were no objections. (Prevailed 5-0) A motion was made by ALD. BORKOWSKI that this Motion be AMENDED. This motion PREVAILED by the following vote: Aye 5- Coggs, Borkowski, Brostoff, Chambers Jr., and Murphy No 0 Excused 1- Perez 12 ANTONIO PEREZ, Lucia, Agent for "Tacos Guelaguetzza LLC", Food Dealer and Food Peddler License Renewal Applications for "Tacos Guelaguetzza LLC" at 1039 W National Av. (Expires 4/11/2023) The applicant was not present. Ald. Chambers moved to hold the application to the call of the chair. There were no objections. (Prevailed 5-0) Ald. Brostoff moved to reconsider the application at 2:58 pm The applicant was present along with Francisco Hernandez as interpreter. Individuals also present: Carmen Ayala – 903 S Cesar Chavez St – said that she owns the business and buildings next door and that the BID has received complaints too about the people who visits the food trucks after hours, throwing garbage (bottles of liquor and beer). She also said that this business is ready for a brick and mortar location because it is successful. She added that the pest problem is increasing and that businesses and residents are being affected. Ms. Murillo asked Ms. Ayala if the applicant ever contacted her in regards of the objections. Ms. Ayala said that she has not been contacted at all by the applicant. Ald. Borkowski moved to include the photographs brought by Ms. Ayala as part of the record. There were no objections. Azael Flores – 1518 S 32nd St – said that he is the BID director and that he has contacted the applicant in regards of the garbage complaints. He added that an extra garbage bin was brought by the applicant but that it is not enough for the long hours of this food truck. Ald. Chambers asked Mr. Flores if the garbage and parking are part of the issue all together. Mr. Flores said that it is and that the long hours of this food truck that produce large amounts of garbage. Ald. Chambers said that it seems to him that is a widely problem with a heavy food truck population on the street. Ald. Brostoff asked why they advertise that they are open until 5:30 am The applicant said that they made a mistake on the advertisement. Ald. Brostoff asked Mr. Flores if they have seen this food truck operating at 5:30 am Mr. Flores said that he has not seen it because he is sleeping. Ald. Brostoff asked the applicant if she has had any contact with the neighbors and businesses prior today’s hearing. The applicant said that she has not. Ald. Brostoff asked the applicant if she cleans up after closing time. The applicant said that she does and that she has cameras around the truck. Mr. Flores said that he would like to have a talk with the businesses to come up with a plan. City of Milwaukee Page 17 LICENSES COMMITTEE Meeting Minutes March 7, 2023 Ms. Murillo said that they have received the complaints from the Chavez BID but that they will leave up to the committee’s discretion. Ald. Brostoff moved to hold the application to the call of the chair. There were no objections. (Prevailed 5-0) A motion was made by ALD. BROSTOFF that this Motion be HELD TO CALL OF THE CHAIR. This motion PREVAILED by the following vote: Aye 5- Coggs, Borkowski, Brostoff, Chambers Jr., and Murphy No 0 Excused 1- Perez 12 CHUDNOW, Richard G, Agent for "COMPROV, INC", Center for Visual and Performing Arts License Application for "COMEDY SPORTZ" at 420 S 1ST St. The applicant was present. Individuals also present: Ms. Murillo said that Ald. Perez has no objections. Ald. Borkowski moved approval. There were no objections. (Prevailed 5-0) A motion was made by ALD. BORKOWSKI that this Motion be AMENDED. This motion PREVAILED by the following vote: Aye 5- Coggs, Borkowski, Brostoff, Chambers Jr., and Murphy No 0 Excused 1- Perez 01 NAGRA, Gurinder S, Agent for "VILLARD PETRO MART INC", Extended Hours Establishments, Filling Station, Food Dealer and Weights & Measures License Applications Requesting to Open 24Hrs/Sun - Sat for "Villard Petro Mart" at 3709 W VILLARD Av. Atty. Maistelman appeared on behalf of the applicant and said that his client runs a number of businesses in the city and that it is his intention to run the same business model. Individuals also present: Ald. Chambers said that this is an existing business with the 24 hours license. Ald. Borkowski moved approval. There were no objections. (Prevailed 5-0) A motion was made by ALD. BORKOWSKI that this Motion be AMENDED. This motion PREVAILED by the following vote: Aye 5- Coggs, Borkowski, Brostoff, Chambers Jr., and Murphy No 0 Excused 1- Perez 01 CHEATHAM, Brandalynn C, Agent for "MOMS HOUSE LLC", Class B Tavern, Public Entertainment Premises and Food Dealer License Applications Requesting 5 Amusement Machines for "TONY'S BBQ" at 3510 W VILLARD Av. The applicant was present and said that they are trying to take over the existing business. Individuals also present: Ald. Coggs asked the applicant if she has met with the Villard BID. The applicant said that she has not heard from them. City of Milwaukee Page 18 LICENSES COMMITTEE Meeting Minutes March 7, 2023 Ald. Chambers said that he would like to approve the food license and to hold the Class B Tavern and Public Entertainment Premises until the new alderperson comes next month. The applicant said that the contract that she put in place with the owner to apply for the licenses expires at the end of the month. Mr. Cooney said that the current licensee does not have alcohol and entertainment licenses due holds in occupancy. Ald. Coggs said that she recommends the applicant to renegotiate that contract because those licenses have not been issued due a hold from DNS, which means that they do not have the license due the lack of fulfilling requirements. The applicant said that she is very frustrated with the process because it has been very hard to get here today. Ald. Coggs explained that legally speaking, the application is being heard within the time that is supposed to be heard. Ald. Murphy moved approval of the food license and to hold the Class B Tavern and Public Entertainment Premises until the new alderperson comes next month. There were no objections. (Prevailed 5-0) A motion was made by ALD. MURPHY that this Motion be AMENDED. This motion PREVAILED by the following vote: Aye 5- Coggs, Borkowski, Brostoff, Chambers Jr., and Murphy No 0 Excused 1- Perez 01 JABER, Sharif, Agent for "Nofal LLC", Class A Malt & Class A Liquor License Application for "Food Town Mart" at 3217 W Villard Av. The applicant was not present. Mr. Cooney said that the applicant requested that the application be held. Ald. Borkowski moved to hold the application to the call of the chair. There were no objections. (Prevailed 5-0) A motion was made by ALD. BORKOWSKI that this Motion be HELD TO CALL OF THE CHAIR. This motion PREVAILED by the following vote: Aye 5- Coggs, Borkowski, Brostoff, Chambers Jr., and Murphy No 0 Excused 1- Perez 01 SINGH, Navdeep, Agent for "Tavleen Enterprises Inc.", Class A Fermented Malt License Renewal Application with Removing and Adding Stockholder for "Spring Food Market" at 3432 W Silver Spring DR. (Expired 1/17/2023) The applicant was present. Individuals also present: Ald. Borkowski moved approval since it is a renewal with no police report. There were no objections. (Prevailed 5-0) A motion was made by ALD. BORKOWSKI that this Motion be AMENDED. This motion PREVAILED by the following vote: Aye 5- Coggs, Borkowski, Brostoff, Chambers Jr., and Murphy No 0 City of Milwaukee Page 19 LICENSES COMMITTEE Meeting Minutes March 7, 2023 Excused 1- Perez 01 AMIN, Dhanani, Agent for "HZ OPS HOLDINGS INC.", Extended Hours Establishments and Food Dealer License Renewal Applications for "Popeye's # 901" at 2910 W CAPITOL DR. (Expires 4/18/2023) Atty, Bryan Randall appeared on behalf of the applicant. Atty. Randall said that both incidents were unfortunate but that the staff did the right thing and that they have been cooperative with the police. He added that they have follow up protocol and, that they have been graded A by the Health Department after the second incident. Individuals also present: Ald. Chambers said that he has communication with Atty. Randall about all of the issues with Popeye’s and that for quite too long this business has not been running to the best of their abilities. Atty. Randall said that they will continue working on addressing the issues brought to his attention. Ald. Chambers moved approval. There were no objections. (Prevailed 5-0) A motion was made by ALD. CHAMBERS JR. that this Motion be AMENDED. This motion PREVAILED by the following vote: Aye 5- Coggs, Borkowski, Brostoff, Chambers Jr., and Murphy No 0 Excused 1- Perez 01 ROBERTS, Shalanda R, Agent for "S&G Junking & Towing LLC", Recycling, Salvaging or Towing Vehicle License Renewal Application with Change of Vehicles for "S&G Junking & Towing" at 4343 N 15th St. (Expires 3/22/2023) The application was called at 2:41 pm Atty. Maistelman appeared on behalf of the applicant and requested that the application be held. Ald. Brostoff moved to hold the application to the call of the chair. There were no objections. (Prevailed 5-0) A motion was made by ALD. BROSTOFF that this Motion be HELD TO CALL OF THE CHAIR. This motion PREVAILED by the following vote: Aye 5- Coggs, Borkowski, Brostoff, Chambers Jr., and Murphy No 0 Excused 1- Perez 07 NAVADIA, Prakash, Agent for "4728 Property Management Inc", Class A Malt & Class A Liquor and Weights & Measures License Applications for "Clark's Beer & Liquor" at 4728 W BURLEIGH St. The applicant was present along with Atty. Maistelman who said that this applicant is the current operator because the deal fell through with the current licensee and that those licenses have not been picked up. Individuals also present: Ald. Brostoff asked how this happened. Atty. Maistelman said that the deal did not go through and that his client has the deed and the right to occupy the building. Atty. Obviagele is here to represent the current licensee and requested that this item be held. He added that deals like this are finalized upon the contingency to get the City of Milwaukee Page 20 LICENSES COMMITTEE Meeting Minutes March 7, 2023 licenses granted. Atty. Brostoff asked if there are two conflicts in place and asked to Atty. Obviagele is his client had the property right when he applied for the licenses. Atty. Obviagele said that it is stated as a condition on the offer to purchase. Atty. Obviagele said that he would like to hold of the application. Atty. Jackson said that there is no property interest so that Ansh Clark Liquor has no right on the property. Atty. Maistelman said that his client did not provide another opportunity to close the deal and that the deal died on December of 2022. He added that they did not sign anything and that his client has been operating the business since 2019. Ald. Coggs said that the committee is not here to resolve the contract issues. Ald. Chambers moved approval. There were no objections. (Prevailed 5-0) A motion was made by ALD. CHAMBERS JR. that this Motion be AMENDED. This motion PREVAILED by the following vote: Aye 5- Coggs, Borkowski, Brostoff, Chambers Jr., and Murphy No 0 Excused 1- Perez 07 SPENCER, Mario A, Agent for "Infinity Lounge LLC", Class B Tavern, Public Entertainment Premises and Food Dealer License Renewal Applications Adding Jukebox and Bottle Girls Service Performers and Change of Hours From Opening at 6PM Thu - Sat and Closing at 10PM on Sun, at 8PM Mon-Wed and, at 2AM Thu-Sat; To Open at 11AM Sun-Sat and; Close at 2AM Sun-Thu and at 2:30AM Fri & Sat for "Infinity Lounge" at 4001 W FOND DU LAC Av. (Expired 2/28/2023) The applicant was present along with Atty. Michael Maistelman. Atty. Maistelman said that he is glad that MPD is here to clarify some issues. He added that the police report is actually working for his client because the calls for service are ruled baseless and his client has been always cooperative. He added that at the revocation hearing brought up by one neighbor, the same neighbor said under oath, that MPD took bribes from his client. He also said that Ald. Borkowski asked to have MPD here to respond to those accusations. Atty. Maistelman asked the committee chair to allow Elizabeth Coggs to testify first. Ald. Borkowski granted the request. Individuals in support: Elizabeth Coggs – Director of Operations & Juneteenth -said that they have a partnership and collaboration with Mr. Spencer and the Black Cowboys Association to bring a little joy to the youth and that those events have impacted the lives of those kids. Ald. Rainey asked the witness if those events are related to this particular business. Ms. Coggs said that those events are not related to the business at all. Ald. Rainey asked the witness if she has visited the establishment. Ms. Coggs said that she has not been at Infinity Lounge. Individuals in Opposition: Lydia Melton – 3315 N 40th St - said that she is at a confusion stage because one thing that she wants to do is to correct the applicant. She also said that the last meeting on October 18, 2023 was adjourned because what she said is that the police were harassing her, interrogating her when she was calling to complaint. She said that the police has told her “she should not have moved next to a bar” when she has lived there for 13 years and that, they don’t know her. Ald. Borkowski said that without getting into details, the meeting was adjourned because she also was disparaging the alderperson and that he is happy to have a civil conversation with her, that the floor is hers but also asked her to refrain from disparaging comments. City of Milwaukee Page 21 LICENSES COMMITTEE Meeting Minutes March 7, 2023 Ms. Melton said that the meeting was not adjourned because of what she said about that Ald. Rainey being paid but because the police was not here; that there were no reports and that she has submitted disturbing videos and that she wants answer to the chaos. She also said that these situations are not ok because the applicant is not the one living with a bar next-door with that type of transactions. Ald. Borkowski asked Ms. Melton if she wants the police to come forward. Ms. Melton said that she has no problem with the police coming forward. Officer Walker and Officer Thompson from District 7 (36th St and Fond du Lac Av) introduced themselves. Ms. Melton said that she has not talked to neither of these police officers and asked them for their shifts hours. Officer Thompson said that they work from 11Am to 7PM. Ms. Melton said that these hours do not work for her because the activity that she has reported is at night. Officer Thompson said that they are community liaison officers and that they are the ones that neighbors need to talk to about any existing issue around. Ms. Melton asked the police officers if they have received any calls about her issues with Infinity Lounge. Officer Thompson said that there was a call about a surveillance camera pointing in the direction of the customers of the Infinity Lounge. Ms. Melton said that nothing has changed since the last meeting and that the applicant tried to block her surveillance camera, which is illegal. She added that nothing has changed and that even Ald. Rainey has the videos of people driving on the sidewalk, the late hours, the strippers, the garbage, cars blocking her driveway, the loud music and asked the committee when is it going to change and, that she pays taxes as well. Ald. Brostoff said that were a couple of different of serious issues that we are talking about today, that one is the videos that are on file since the last hearing and that the other issue is that there is a process to address situations with the police and that they can be directed to the Fire and Police Commission. Ald. Chambers said that he watched the video from the previous hearing yesterday and, that the accusation that a police officer being paid off came out of her mouth. He also asked Ms. Melton how her cameras have been blocked by the applicant. Ms. Melton said that he placed a big piece of plywood in front of the camera. Ald. Chambers asked Ms. Melton to clarify about the parking situation. Ms. Melton said that cars park on the sidewalk and drive on the sidewalk as well and that there are videos as well. Atty. Maistelman asked Ms. Melton is she and her brother owned the same bar years ago. Ms. Melton said that she did not own the place but that she managed it. Ald. Maistelman asked if she was upset when she found out that her brother sold the business without telling her. Ms. Melton said that it was his brother’s business and that this happened back on 2007. Atty. Maistelman asked Ms. Melton if there is a complaint about patrons urinating between her property and Infinity Lounge. Ms. Melton said that is documented in a video as well. Atty. Maistelman asked Ms. Melton if his client started to build a fence between the properties to avoid the urinating problem and that she did not allow his client to continue building it. Ms. Melton said that it is a gate way and that it is part of her property and that his client was trying to close it off. Ald. Rainey said that more than a year ago, he held a meeting at Infinity Lounge with the applicant and Ms. Melton as well. He said that Mr. Spencer did the wrong things since the beginning. He added that Mr. Spencer told him that he was going to do stuff for the community and to open a computer lab and, that what he has seen from City of Milwaukee Page 22 LICENSES COMMITTEE Meeting Minutes March 7, 2023 Infinity Lounge is constant advertising of strippers. He asked the applicant if he has the license for that type of entertainment. Ald. Rainey said that the way that Mr. Spencer is handling his business like allowing people to hang out outside is a mayhem waiting to happen. Ald. Rainey said that he does not know if we have the preponderance of evidence to recommend a nonrenewal today but that he knows that the applicant has been operating outside his scope and that is just a matter of time for something to happen and that we all be back here. He said that he supports a 60 days suspension at minimum Ald. Brostoff asked Ald. Rainey if he has personally witnessed the activity that he is referring to. Ald. Rainey said that he has not but that the License Division has those advertisement videos. Atty. Maistelman asked that his client respond to some of the things that Ald. Rainey said. Mr. Spencer said that he used a promoter to do the videos and that he has not talked to Ald. Rainey since June when he asked to Ald. Rainey about girls not taking their clothes off while shooting a video. He added that he does things in the community on his parking lot with the horses and that he gives a way roses on Mother’s day and dinners on Father’s Day for example. He also said that Mr. Melton does not communicate with him at all and that, she has let her two big rottweiler dogs out to chase his customers and that he has not posted anything on Instagram and Facebook about strippers and that he wants to see those videos. Mr. Cooney said that there are four videos that were forwarded to the License Division via Instagram. Atty. Jackson said that we need to check with channel 25 even if the videos are appropriate to broadcast. Atty. Maistelman said that there is no nudity on the videos. Atty. Jackson said that there is a statute for the public entertainment premises that defines what a costume is and what the workers are allowed and not allowed to wear. He added that there is distinction on what male and female dancers/workers can wear. Ald. Coggs suggested not to broadcast the video. The videos were played for the committee only. Mr. Spencer that only three videos were shoot at his establishment and that is the reason why he is applying for the Bottle Girls Service. Ald. Rainey said that the video says explicitly “there will be strippers from Chicago”. The video was played again. Mr. Spencer said that there are no strippers on the video and that he has been operating for over a year with no incidents. Ald. Borkowski asked the committee if it is fair to say that there is no stripping on the video. Atty. Jackson said that regarding to the first video; the establishment will fall under the statute if the establishment was open to the public and being promoted to the public as far of what can and cannot be worn. He added that strictly talking about the clothing, those dancers would be in violation of the statute. Atty. Maistelman said that we have a police report that does not support anything of what the neighbor is saying. He added that his client is testifying that it was a private closed event when they were shooting the videos and that he guess it was permissible but that they have no other evidence except for his client’s testimony. He added that there are pictures on the file of client giving back to the community and he asked for the license be renewed with a warning letter. Ald. Murphy moved renewal with a 60 day suspension based upon the preponderance of the evidence in the police report, resident testimony (written and oral) along with the aldermanic testimony. The motion passed (3-1-1). A motion was made by ALD. MURPHY that this Motion be AMENDED. This City of Milwaukee Page 23 LICENSES COMMITTEE Meeting Minutes March 7, 2023 motion PREVAILED by the following vote: Aye 3- Borkowski, Brostoff, and Murphy No 1- Chambers Jr. Excused 1- Perez Abstain 1- Coggs Ald. Chambers moved approval of the "Agenda Only" items. There were no objections. (Prevailed 5-0) A motion was made by ALD. CHAMBERS JR. that this Motion be AMENDED. This motion PREVAILED by the following vote: Aye 5- Coggs, Borkowski, Brostoff, Chambers Jr., and Murphy No 0 Excused 1- Perez Ald. Brostoff moved approval of the "Warning Letter" items. There were no objections. (Prevailed 5-0) A motion was made by ALD. BROSTOFF that this Motion be AMENDED. This motion PREVAILED by the following vote: Aye 5- Coggs, Borkowski, Brostoff, Chambers Jr., and Murphy No 0 Excused 1- Perez A motion was made by ALD. MURPHY that this Motion be RECOMMENDED FOR APPROVAL. This motion PREVAILED by the following vote: Aye 5- Coggs, Borkowski, Brostoff, Chambers Jr., and Murphy No 0 Excused 1- Perez The meeting adjourned at 5:03 pm Yadira Melendez Staff Assistant This meeting can be viewed in its entirety through the City's Legislative Research Center at http://milwaukee.legistar.com/calendar. City of Milwaukee Page 24