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Meeting Name: LICENSES COMMITTEE Agenda status: Final
Meeting date/time: 11/10/2020 9:00 AM Minutes status: Final  
Meeting location: Room 301-B, City Hall
This is a virtual meeting. Those wishing to view the proceedings are able to do so via the City Channel - Channel 25 on Spectrum Cable - or on the Internet at http://city.milwaukee.gov/citychannel.
Published agenda: Agenda Agenda Published minutes: Minutes Minutes  
Meeting video: eComment: Not available  
Attachments:
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200736 01.MotionMotion relating to the recommendations of the Licenses Committee relating to Licenses.

Minutes note: 10 WRIGHT, JR, Wilson, Agent for "Pop's and Sons Tires LLC", Recycling, Salvaging, or Towing Premises License Application Requesting Dealing, Storing and/or Transporting Waste Tires for "Pop's and Sons Tires" at 5301 W Lisbon Av. Individual also present: Jennifer Byrne - 10th District Legislative Assistant stated Ald. Murphy has no objections. Ald. Borkowski has no objections. (Prevailed 5-0)
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200736 0 MotionMotion relating to the recommendations of the Licenses Committee relating to Licenses.

Minutes note: 05 WARDEH, Muhnnad, Agent for "Midwest Auto Source LLC", Secondhand Motor Vehicle Dealer's-Wholesale Only License Application for "Midwest Auto Source" at 7607 W TOWNSEND St. The applicant was present. Ald. Dodd moved approval. (Prevailed 5-0)
AMENDEDPass5:0 Action details Video Video
200736 0 MotionMotion relating to the recommendations of the Licenses Committee relating to Licenses.

Minutes note: 05 GARDNER, Cettery M Class A Malt & Class A Liquor License Renewal Application for "C & G LIQUORS" at 3307 N 76TH St. (Expires 11/26/2020) The applicant started his tenant called the City because she couldn't pay her rent and then he got DNS violations. Ald. Dodd moved approval. (Prevailed 5-0)
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200736 0 MotionMotion relating to the recommendations of the Licenses Committee relating to Licenses.

Minutes note: 06 SCHAEFER, Matthew A, Agent for "Uncle Wolfie's Breakfast Tavern LLC", Class B Tavern, Food Dealer, and Sidewalk Dining License Renewal Applications with Change of Hours Sun-Sat From Closing 3 PM To 9 PM and Food and Alcohol Permanent Extension of Premises Applications Adding Additional Sidewalk Dining for "Uncle Wolfie's Breakfast Tavern" at 234 E Vine St. (Expires 12/9/2020) The applicant stated he emailed residents about the proposed changes. Ald. Coggs stated she has no objections and has received calls in support. Ald. Coggs moved approval. (Prevailed 5-0)
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200736 0 MotionMotion relating to the recommendations of the Licenses Committee relating to Licenses.

Minutes note: 06 LEVIN, Robert M, Agent for "FS SCHLITZ, LLC", Class B Tavern and Food Dealer License Applications for "Brown Bottle" at 221 W GALENA St. The applicant was present. Ald. Coggs moved approval. (Prevailed 5-0)
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200736 0 MotionMotion relating to the recommendations of the Licenses Committee relating to Licenses.

Minutes note: 12 TILLMAN, Ronnie P, Agent for "Affiliate Group LLC", Class B Tavern, Food Dealer, and Public Entertainment Premises License Renewal Applications for "Tycoon Sports Bar & Grill" at 721 S CESAR E CHAVEZ DR. (Expires 11/14/2020) The applicant stated he does not have a valid lease at the premises and he will withdraw his license. Individuals also present: Ald. Perez Ald. Borkowski moved to accept the withdrawal of the applications. (Prevailed 5-0)
AMENDEDPass5:0 Action details Video Video
200736 0 MotionMotion relating to the recommendations of the Licenses Committee relating to Licenses.

Minutes note: 09 HOLDEN, Ivan, Agent for "Pawn America Wisconsin, LLC", Secondhand Dealer's License Application for "Pawn America" at 6574 N 76TH St. The applicant stated he didn't know he had to have his dog licensed when he moved. Appearing with the applicant: Brad Rixmann 14291 Shady Beach Tr NE Friar Lake, MN Ald. Lewis moved approval. (Prevailed 5-0)
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200736 0 MotionMotion relating to the recommendations of the Licenses Committee relating to Licenses.

Minutes note: 09 PROCELL, Karen W, Agent for "Moran Foods, LLC", Food Dealer and Weights & Measures License Renewal Applications for "Save-A-Lot #8014" at 6410 N 76th St. (Expires 12/1/2020) Appearing on behalf of the applicant: Atty. John Geist Ald. Lewis stated she wants to meet with the applicant to discuss an abatement plan for the shopping carts. Ald. Lewis moved to hold to the call of the chair to meet with the applicant. (Prevailed 5-0)
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200736 0 MotionMotion relating to the recommendations of the Licenses Committee relating to Licenses.

Minutes note: 08 GATZ, Jestun R, Agent for "G and G Consulting Company Laundry Facilities", Self Service Laundry License Renewal Application for "Koala T Coin Laundry" at 2227 W National Av. (Expires 12/9/2020) The applicant stated they have put up cameras around the property. Individual also present: Ald. Zamarripa stated there were problems in the past. Ald. Kovac moved approval. (Prevailed 5-0)
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200736 0 MotionMotion relating to the recommendations of the Licenses Committee relating to Licenses.

Minutes note: 08 ALMAADHEEDI, Khashea J, Agent for "KJ Food Mart LLC", Class A Malt License Application and Food Dealer License Renewal Application for "Happy Face Food Mart" at 2039 W GREENFIELD Av. The applicant stated he has hundreds of customers asking about buying beer. Individual also present: Ald. Zamarripa stated she understand the applicant only wants a beer license, but she cannot support the application. Individuals present in opposition: Paul Grippe 1391 S 21st St stated there is a heavy saturation of beer licenses in his neighborhood. He added there is a problem with prostitution and drugs in the area. Patricia Najera 5575 S 23rd St stated she is the Executive Director of Clarke Square Neighborhood Initiative and the organization is against the application based on overconcentration. She added that adding liquor does not improve the quality of life of the neighborhood. Ald. Lewis moved denial of the Class A Malt license application based on neighborhood and aldermanic testimony and overconcentration, and approval of the Food Dealer license application. (Prevailed 5-0)
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200736 0 MotionMotion relating to the recommendations of the Licenses Committee relating to Licenses.

Minutes note: 07 RAY, SR, Michael, Agent for "Michael Ray Gents Plus LLC", Class B Tavern and Public Entertainment Premises License Renewal Applications for "Gold Diggers Milw" at 4750 N HOPKINS St. (Expired 10/15/2020) The applicant stated that the issue with the ladies was promptly handled by security and he has been cooperative with the police. He added that the security guard didn't take his diabetes medication and that's why he passed out, and he was released from the hospital the same night. He added that he now has a security patrol car to handle issues of public urination by customers. He stated that the premises is not open at 6 AM. He added that he wished Ms. Cleveland would contact him directly regarding the issues she is having with the premises and the patrons. Individual present in opposition: Roshonda Cleveland 4750 N 37th St stated customers sit outside in their cars playing music, loitering, and urinating outside. She added that there are bottles and litter in front of her house from customers of the premises. She stated that she has seen people at the premises at 6 AM and sometimes they don't even close. Individual also present: Ald. Rainey stated he has met with the applicant on several occasions, but he is unable to get the premises under control and he has continued to receive complaints from neighbors. He added that the premises is in the same situation as a year ago when they received a 10 day suspension. He stated that the applicant has to get a handle on the issues from his patrons of noise and public urination. He recommends a 15 day suspension to allow the applicant to get a handle on the premises. Ald. Kovac moved approval with a 10 day suspension based on aldermanic and neighborhood testimony, and the police report, holding open #16 on the police report. (Prevailed 5-0)
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200736 0 MotionMotion relating to the recommendations of the Licenses Committee relating to Licenses.

Minutes note: 02 PROCELL, Karen W, Agent for "Moran Foods, LLC", Food Dealer License Renewal Application for "Save-A-Lot #8013" at 4821 N 76th St. (Expires 12/1/2020) Appearing on behalf of the applicant: Atty. John Giest Individual also present: Arlisia McHenry - 2nd District Executive Assistant stated Pres. Johnson has been working with the applicant to address the issues with the shopping carts and recommends approval. Ald. Borkowski moved approval. (Prevailed 5-0)
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200736 0 MotionMotion relating to the recommendations of the Licenses Committee relating to Licenses.

Minutes note: 14 GRAVES, Christopher M, Agent for "Bad Moon Saloon LLC", Class B Tavern and Public Entertainment Premises License Applications Requesting Jukebox and 1 Pinball Machine for "Bad Moon Saloon" at 4035 S CLEMENT Av. Appearing with the applicant: Kristin Graves Individual present in opposition: Stephen Kopecki 4069 S Clement Ave stated he is the abutting property owner and had problems with the previous premise playing music outside and patrons drinking out front while they were smoking. Individual also present: Ald. Dimitrijevic stated she met with the applicants, there was a virtual neighborhood meeting, and she has no objections. Ald. Kovac moved approval. (Prevailed 5-0)
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200736 0 MotionMotion relating to the recommendations of the Licenses Committee relating to Licenses.

Minutes note: 13 PILLER, Jeffrey J, Agent for "All City Towing LLC", Recycling, Salvaging, or Towing Premises License Renewal Application with Transfer of Stock and Change of Shareholder for "All City Towing" at 1213 W MALLORY Av. (Expired 10/14/2020) Ald. Lewis moved to hold to the call of the chair based on nonappearance. (Prevailed 5-0)
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200736 0 MotionMotion relating to the recommendations of the Licenses Committee relating to Licenses.

Minutes note: 15 PICKENS, Patricia A Class B Tavern and Public Entertainment Premises License Renewal Applications for "Rose's Place" at 2878 N 20th St. (Expires 12/3/2020) The applicant stated there were no violations on the police report, but she didn't know about balloons. She added that she has always cooperated with the police. Individual also present: Dameon Ellzey - 15th District Legislative Assistant stated Ald. Stamper had concerns about the operations at the premises. He added that they want to make sure the applicant is following the Governor's orders and capacity limits. Ald. Dodd moved approval. (Prevailed 5-0)
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200736 0 MotionMotion relating to the recommendations of the Licenses Committee relating to Licenses.

Minutes note: 15 COTTON, Shanita M, Agent for "T Jay's Lounge LLC", Class B Tavern and Public Entertainment Premises License Renewal Applications for "T Jay's Lounge" at 2911 W North Av. (Expires 12/4/2020) Appearing on behalf of the applicant: Atty. Coral Pleas stated she represents the applicant for #17 on the police report. She added that #19 on the police report was an unfortunate circumstance, the patron was intoxicated and the male is no longer allowed at the premises. She stated that they have adequate security and lighting. She added that the management always cooperates with the police, and is striving to do better so these errors don't continue to happen. She stated that the premises COVID-19 safety plan has been approved. She added that the owners are trying to run a good establishment in the community and don't want to be a nuisance. Individual also present: Dameon Ellzey - 15th District Legislative Assistant stated Ald. Stamper had concerns about the disregard for the capacity limits during the pandemic. He added that the premises has a history of problems. He stated that last year there was a video on Facebook of a melee outside the premises. He added that the applicant was previously unaware of what was occurring at the premises. He stated that Ald. Stamper requests a 20 day suspension based on the overcapacity issues during the pandemic. Ald. Kovac moved approval with a 20 day suspension based on the aldermanic testimony and the police report. (Prevailed 4-1, Ald. Coggs voting no)
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200736 0 MotionMotion relating to the recommendations of the Licenses Committee relating to Licenses.

Minutes note: CARTER, SR, Dexter R, Class B Manager's License Renewal Application. (Expired 6/30/2020) Ald. Dodd moved to hold to the call of the chair based on nonappearance. (Prevailed 4-0)
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200736 0 MotionMotion relating to the recommendations of the Licenses Committee relating to Licenses.

Minutes note: HORTON, Aja R, Class D Operator's License Renewal Application. (Expired 12/31/2019) Ald. Dodd moved to hold to the call of the chair based on nonappearance. (Prevailed 4-0)
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200736 0 MotionMotion relating to the recommendations of the Licenses Committee relating to Licenses.

Minutes note: MCKINNIE, Deandrea A, Class D Operator's License Renewal Application. (Expires 12/31/2020) The applicant stated she missed her first payment of the payment plan to pay her OWI citation. The applicant stated she hasn't drank since she got the OWI. Ald. Borkowski moved approval with a warning letter based on the police report. (Prevailed 4-0)
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200736 0 MotionMotion relating to the recommendations of the Licenses Committee relating to Licenses.

Minutes note: SMITH, Tianna A, Class D Operator's License Renewal Application. (Expires 12/31/2020) Ald. Dodd moved approval. (Prevailed 4-0)
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200736 0 MotionMotion relating to the recommendations of the Licenses Committee relating to Licenses.

Minutes note: GILBERT, Lafeshia M, Class D Operator's License Renewal Application. (Expires 12/31/2020) Ald. Lewis moved to hold to the call of the chair based on nonappearance. (Prevailed 4-0)
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200736 0 MotionMotion relating to the recommendations of the Licenses Committee relating to Licenses.

Minutes note: LOPEZ SAAVEDRA, Gorgonio, Class D Operator's License Renewal Application. (Expires 12/31/2020) Ald. Dodd moved to hold to the call of the chair based on nonappearance. (Prevailed 4-0)
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200736 0 MotionMotion relating to the recommendations of the Licenses Committee relating to Licenses.

Minutes note: NADASDY, Gregory J, Class D Operator's License Renewal Application. (Expires 12/31/2020) Ald. Dodd moved approval. (Prevailed 4-0)
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200736 0 MotionMotion relating to the recommendations of the Licenses Committee relating to Licenses.

Minutes note: THOMPSON, Lawrence D, Class D Operator's License Renewal Application. (Expires 12/31/2020) Ald. Lewis moved to hold to the call of the chair based on nonappearance. (Prevailed 4-0)
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200736 0 MotionMotion relating to the recommendations of the Licenses Committee relating to Licenses.

Minutes note: TOWNSEND, Jazmere S, Class D Operator's License Renewal Application. (Expires 12/31/2020) Ald. Dodd moved to hold to the call of the chair based on nonappearance. (Prevailed 4-0)
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200736 0 MotionMotion relating to the recommendations of the Licenses Committee relating to Licenses.

Minutes note: WILBRANDT, Victoria A, Class D Operator's License Renewal Application. (Expires 12/31/2020) Ald. Borkowski moved to hold to the call of the chair based on nonappearance. (Prevailed 4-0)
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200736 0 MotionMotion relating to the recommendations of the Licenses Committee relating to Licenses.

Minutes note: KASSEES, Anthony J, Class D Operator's License Renewal Application. (Expires 12/31/2020) The applicant stated his roommate was selling drugs from their home and he was unaware of it. He added that his friend put paraphernalia in his glove compartment. Ald. Dodd moved approval holding open #3-4 on the police report. (Prevailed 4-0)
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200736 0 MotionMotion relating to the recommendations of the Licenses Committee relating to Licenses.

Minutes note: MARTINEZ, Alejandro, Class D Operator's License Renewal Application. (Expires 12/31/2020) The applicant stated he found out about the citation when the police showed up two weeks later and asked him about it. He added that the citation was paid through his tax returns. Ald. Borkowski moved approval with a warning letter based on the police report. (Prevailed 4-0)
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200736 0 MotionMotion relating to the recommendations of the Licenses Committee relating to Licenses.

Minutes note: VASQUEZ, Jose M, Agent for "JMV Construction LLC", Home Improvement Contractor's License Application for "JMV Construction". Ald. Dodd moved approval. (Prevailed 4-0)
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200736 0 MotionMotion relating to the recommendations of the Licenses Committee relating to Licenses.

Minutes note: KELLER, Anton S, Agent for "ZIG'S HEATING & COOLING, LLC", Home Improvement Contractor's License Application for "ZIG'S HEATING & COOLING". Ald. Lewis moved denial based on second nonappearance. (Prevailed 4-0)
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200736 0 MotionMotion relating to the recommendations of the Licenses Committee relating to Licenses.

Minutes note: CRISLER, La vance T, Agent for "Reliant Property Management LLC", Home Improvement Contractor's License Application for "Reliant Property Management LLC". The applicant stated that the items on the police report are the same incident. He added that he is happy to be alive and he was going through a rough time in his life. Ald. Lewis moved approval. (Prevailed 4-0)
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200736 0 MotionMotion relating to the recommendations of the Licenses Committee relating to Licenses.

Minutes note: 04 QETAIRI, Abdalmajid, Agent for "In & Out Pantry LLC", Class A Malt & Class A Liquor License Application for "In & Out Pantry LLC" at 701 W Wisconsin Av. Appearing with the applicant: Atty. Robert Myroff Individual also present: Ald. Bauman stated this application has been before the Committee several times and he has no objections because the previous license has been surrendered. Individual present in support: Christopher Fisher 735 W Wisconsin Ave #915 stated he is in support. Ald. Borkowski moved approval. (Prevailed 4-0)
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200736 0 MotionMotion relating to the recommendations of the Licenses Committee relating to Licenses.

Minutes note: 04 DEUSTER, Andrew C, Agent for "BOOBY JDK, LLC", Class B Tavern, Food Dealer, and Public Entertainment Premises License Renewal Applications for "McGillycuddy's Bar & Grill" at 1133-37 N Water St. (Expires 11/29/2020) The applicant stated there was a situation where they tried to manage the fight with their security, but the situation escalated quickly. Appearing with the applicant: Jeffrey Kovacovich 3356 N Newhall St Individual also present: Ald. Bauman stated he recommends a warning letter. Ald. Borkowski moved approval with a warning letter based on the police report. (Prevailed 4-0)
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200736 0 MotionMotion relating to the recommendations of the Licenses Committee relating to Licenses.

Minutes note: 04 MANJEE, Habib, Agent for "MKE Water Street LLC", Class B Tavern, Public Entertainment Premises, Food Dealer, and Sidewalk Dining License Renewal Applications for "ELMNT Lounge" at 618 N WATER St. (Expires 12/18/2020) The applicant stated one side of the video system was working, but the other side didn't have power. Appearing with the applicant: Atty. Emil Obviagele stated they have changed how they use security since the fight occurred. Nicholas Ramos 610 N Water St stated #6 on the police report was a young lady who was being disorderly and asked to leave, she is no longer allowed at the premises. He added that they no longer use certain promoters and they have revised their security deployment. He added that they use different pour spouts to prevent contamination. Individual also present: Ald. Bauman stated the premises has made changes since they rebranded as ELMNT. He added that he received a lot of emails and phone calls about the January incident. He added that there has been significant progress made and he recommends a warning letter. Individual present in support: Khatija Choudhry 225 E Michigan St Apt 509 stated she has been a patron of the premises and she has experienced no problems at the premises. She stated as a resident she hasn't had any problems either and she feels safe. Ald. Borkowski moved approval with a warning letter based on the police report. (Prevailed 4-0)
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200736 0 MotionMotion relating to the recommendations of the Licenses Committee relating to Licenses.

Minutes note: Agenda Only 03 GOKHMAN, Tim B, Agent for "Crossroads Collective, LLC", Class B Tavern, Public Entertainment Premises, and Food Dealer License Renewal Applications with Change of Hours From Open Sat-Sun 10 AM To Sat-Sun 7 AM and From Closing Sun-Sat 10 PM To 12 AM for "Crossroads Collective" at 2238 N Farwell Av. Ald. Dodd moved approval. (Prevailed 4-0) 06 MEADOWS, Mathew W, Agent for "MIDAS HOSPITALITY, LLC", Class B Tavern, Hotel/Motel, Public Entertainment Premises, Food Dealer – Restaurant, and Food Dealer - Retail License Renewal Applications with Change of Agent for "Aloft Milwaukee Downtown" at 1230 N OLD WORLD THIRD St. Ald. Dodd moved approval. (Prevailed 4-0) 08 FOGEL, Jessica R, Agent for "MERCY HIGH APARTMENTS, LP", Loading Zone Permit Renewal Application with Change of Agent for "MERCY APARTMENTS" at 1720 S 29TH St #107. Ald. Dodd moved approval. (Prevailed 4-0) 14 MUNOZ, Carmen, Agent for "Sabor Tropical LLC", Class B Tavern, Sidewalk Dining, Public Entertainment Premises, and Food Dealer License Transfer Applications with Change of Hours From Closing Thurs-Sat 12 AM To 2:30 AM for "Sabor Tropical Latin Inspired Kitchen & Lounge" at 2258 S KINNICKINNIC Av. Ald. Dodd moved approval. (Prevailed 4-0)
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200736 0 MotionMotion relating to the recommendations of the Licenses Committee relating to Licenses.

Minutes note: Warning Letter DZIERZEWSKI, Timothy A, Class D Operator's License Renewal Application. Ald. Dodd moved approval. (Prevailed 5-0) JONES, JR, Thomas, Class D Operator's License Renewal Application. Ald. Dodd moved approval. (Prevailed 5-0) MILLER, Marcus S, Class D Operator's License Application. Ald. Dodd moved approval. (Prevailed 5-0) 04 TUSLER, Nathan T, Agent for "Double Dragon MKE LLC", Class B Tavern and Public Entertainment Premises License Renewal Applications for "White Tail" at 1110 N OLD WORLD THIRD St. Ald. Dodd moved approval. (Prevailed 5-0) 06 KAUR, Charanjit, Agent for "Center Street Liquor Store Inc", Class A Malt & Class A Liquor and Weights & Measures License Renewal Applications for "Center Street Liquor Store" at 513 E Center St. Ald. Dodd moved approval. (Prevailed 5-0) 12 ATARI, Loai A, Agent for "YASMINE FOODS, LLC", Class A Malt and Food Dealer License Renewal Applications for "LINCOLN SUPERMARKET" at 1534 W LINCOLN Av. Ald. Dodd moved approval. (Prevailed 5-0)
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200736 0 MotionMotion relating to the recommendations of the Licenses Committee relating to Licenses.RECOMMENDED FOR APPROVALPass4:0 Action details Video Video
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200912 02.MotionMotion relating to the Food Dealer and Weights & Measures License Renewal Applications for Lonnie W McCaffety, agent for "Family Dollar Stores of Wisconsin LLC", for "Family Dollar #26182" at 930 N 27th St.

Minutes note: 04 MCCAFFETY, Lonnie W, Agent for "Family Dollar Stores of Wisconsin LLC", Food Dealer and Weights & Measures License Renewal Applications for "Family Dollar #26182" at 930 N 27th St. (Expired 5/1/2020) Appearing on behalf of the applicant: Atty. Josh Gimbel stated this store is important for the employees and residents. He added that the premises provides residents with items that are needed and there has been stable management for the last 6 months. He stated that boarding up the premises is not the appropriate remedy for the issues raised today. He added that a penalty short of nonrenewal should be considered in keeping with progressive discipline. He stated there's onsite security that is doing their best in a challenged area. Denelle Gordon, Regional Manager, 2152 Lancaster Heights Rd, Freeport, IL stated that they are striving for consistency in the store and they have hired a new store manager in April. She added that they conduct a partnership interview and are working on hiring top talent and good customer service. She stated that she met with Mr. Stanley in the summer and they have been making huge improvements and standards across all stores in the brand. She added that they have restriped the parking lot and make sure that customers have good merchandise to pick from in stock and seasonal items. She stated that she would like to make improvements to the building itself, but corporate doesn't want to make the investment because the license is in jeopardy. She added that they have made some donations during the summer, but because of the corporate structure it's hard to make large donations. She stated that she walked the store with management, DNS, and MPD on October 1st and there were no code violations or safety issues. She added that security staff walks through the store and outside to address some issues. She stated that she is willing to meet with anyone for a store walk through and will be participating in the monthly calls with the Near West Side Partners. She added that the premises provides a service for the neighborhood to purchase daily items, seasonal items, electronics, clothes, and shoes. She stated they expanded their cooler assortment and can add more selection with a possible renovation. She added that there are currently 11 employees who all live within a few miles of the premises. She stated that they have made improvements, efforts, and tried to address issues. Harry Sussman, District Manager, 930 N 27th St stated he's been trying to coordinate efforts with community partners and the store. He added that because they don't own the building it is difficult to make improvements. He stated that he is taking the concerns seriously. He added that a lot of their customers walk or ride the bus and to close the store would inconvenience them. Mindy Yoho, District Manager, 9418 N Green Bay Rd, Brown Deer, WI stated a lot of the problems are happening because the patrons of Gare-Bear's fight and do drugs in their parking lot. She stated the tavern opens at 5:30 AM and at 12:30 PM there have been 4 fights in the parking lot today. She added that there is an individual named "Kilbourn" who causes a lot of problems. She stated the plexiglass has been fixed and the store looks the best it has looked in 5 years inside and outside. She added that no one has appeared at the Gare-Bear's hearings to oppose their license. Kiara Sanders, Manager, 4352 N 26th St stated she has been the manager for almost 6 months and she hired 9 employees who all live in the area. She added that a lot of the problems have nothing to do with the premises or it's employee or customers. She stated that she was aware of 5 of the calls for service. She added that she trains her staff on how to handle security issues. She stated that they receive daily compliments on how good the store looks. Individual also present: Ald. Bauman stated there have been 33 calls for service since the last hearing in May, including a subject with a gun complaint on the date of the May hearing. He added that the new argument is that the problems are from Gare-Bear's, but no one from Family Dollar has appeared at a hearing to testify against Gare-Bear's about the problems they are witnessing. He stated there has been additional testimony about more calls for service and the highest call volume in the 3rd District for the last 5 months. He added that there is a grocery store across the street, so there is an alternative to purchase food. He stated that he recommends nonrenewal. He added that he has not met with premises and did not receive a call from management until 12 hours ago. He stated that Family Dollar could care less about how this store is operating. He added that he is an advocate for the residents and businesses in his community. He stated that year after year he hears that they're going to do better, but nothing ever changes, and their business model does not support the health, safety, and welfare of the constituents of the city of Milwaukee. Individuals present in opposition: Keith Stanley Near West Side Partners stated the store has been a consistent issue in the community. He added that he has been in the store many times and met with staff. He stated that he was disappointed in the rough look of the store because there are broken floor tiles and inventory everywhere. He added that for a national brand the employees need more support. He stated that there have been investments, but the store is not clean, not welcoming, not inviting, and the facade is run down. He added that mom and pop stores in the community do a better job than Family Dollar. He stated that he spoke with Mr. Sussman about how Near Westside Partners can support the business. He added that he offered them trash cans, but there is still trash overflowing. He stated that he would like to see a new store with proper management and investment to make sure it is part of the community. He added that he has reached out to the property owner about the premises also. He stated that the operation of the premises allows trash, people fighting and drinking in the parking lot, panhandling, and loitering. He added that it is known that Family Dollar won't address the issues in their parking lot. He stated he would prefer not to have the premises because of the problems it brings to the neighborhood. He added that he understands that there are urban challenges, but the premises is unresponsive and not committed to be involved in the community. He stated the premises has not made efforts to make substantive changes, because it is negatively impacting the residents. Capt. Johnson stated the document is a report of all CAD calls generated by the premises since January 1, 2020. He added that in April there were 50 CAD. He stated that a business check is an officer checking on the business and making sure there are no issues. He added that the officer may go in and talk to employees or just drive by. He stated that he has not met with the management of the premises, but his officers have. He added that the premises is not currently in nuisance status. He added that he is not aware of another business generating the same amount of calls of service as the premises. Asst. Chief Norman stated that 114 calls for service in 9 months is not normal for the 3rd District and higher than one would expect. Bobby McQuay Near West Side Partners stated he has visited the premises 7-10 times a month to observe what is going on at the premises. He stated on October 6th there was a delivery truck parked against traffic, not in a legal loading zone, and unloaded goods for 30-40 minutes. He added that the store is frequently closed in the middle of the day, and he hears complaints from residents about this. He stated that on October 8th he went to the premises at 3:30 PM and it was closed, and this was the second time he has witnessed this. He added that he has not noticed a significant change with regards to cleanliness as there is still trash, litter, and debris flying around. He stated on September 28th at 5:30 PM he went to deliver a garbage can to help with the litter and when he asked to speak to manager he was given the runaround for 10 minutes. He added that there are issues that are generated from the premises. He stated on July 31st he witnessed an employee and the security guard do a hand-to-hand transfer with a passenger from a black car. He added that the main concern of the premises is to generate revenue and not to improve the quality of the store. He stated that there is always product in the aisles, the floor is hazy at best, and it's not a welcoming environment. He added that Gare-Bear's has it's issues, but their calls for service don't rival Family Dollar. He stated that the employees should be reporting the problems they see from Gare-Bear's patrons. He added that he would rather see a boarded up building than the store because he has not seen a change in the behavior of the premises. He stated that he believes that Family Dollar upper management cannot run a store to that is a safe environment, conducive to the community. ADA Jessica Ballenger stated she is a member of the Community Prosecution Team. Ald. Borkowski stated it is painful because there are employees who are dependant on their jobs and there are residents who are counting on this premises. He added that he is discouraged that not a lot has changed since the last hearing. He stated that they should shut down for 3 months to do the necessary improvements. Ald. Lewis stated this has been a problem with Family Dollar brand not being well run, unless you're in the suburbs. She added she has yet to see a Family Dollar that is well kept and maintained. She stated that it is sad to be dealing with the same situations over and over of litter, loitering, inside and outside esthetics, and the business model has to evolve or something has to change. She added that she agrees that there is a strong basis for nonrenewal because of the ongoing issues. Ald. Dodd stated that she has listened to all of the testimony and this is a tough decision to make. Ald. Lewis moved nonrenewal based on the police report, and police, aldermanic, neighborhood, and applicant testimony. (Prevailed 4-0)
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