Licenses Committee Meeting Summary – June 30, 2026

The Milwaukee Licenses Committee met on Tuesday, June 30, 2026, at 9:05 AM in City Hall. The meeting was called to order by Chair Ald. Jocasta Zamarripa and adjourned at 3:35 PM. The committee considered numerous license applications, renewals, transfers, and disciplinary actions, with public testimony on several items.

Consent Calendar

• The committee approved a block of "Agenda Only" items (File 260318) including license transfers and renewals for The Deep Groove, German Fest, Renn Auto LLC, and Taco Bell #30420, all by a 5-0 vote.
• A separate block of "Warning Letter" items was approved, including Teraira Giles' Class D operator's license and renewals for Choice Liquor and North End Beverage, also 5-0.

Public Comments & Testimony

• Milwaukee Food Market (2903 W Clybourn St): Neighbor Mauricio Rodriguez testified that since the store closed, violence and drug activity have decreased. He expressed safety concerns about loitering and trash.
• Fresh Food and Meat Supermarket (4412 W Capitol Dr): Multiple residents spoke both in support and opposition. Supporters praised the applicant's community involvement; opponents cited concentration of liquor licenses and neighborhood deterioration.
• Magic Foods (2879 N 16th St): Extensive testimony from neighbors. Pastor Mary Kannass, Ruby Johnson Harden, Christal West, LaVonica Love, and Joyce Ellwanger opposed the alcohol license renewal, citing loitering, drug dealing, and safety issues for children. Supporters including Barbara Jackson, Shaniqua Davis, and others argued the store is essential and that loitering is not the store's fault.
• Other items: Testimony on Woody's (no neighbors), Burleigh Quick Mart (neighbor safety concerns), and others.

Discussion Items

• Revocation of Punta Cana (2000 S 13th St): The committee recommended placing the revocation motion on file (5-0), effectively ending the revocation proceedings.
• Milwaukee Food Market Renewal: After debate about cleanliness and loitering, the committee amended the plan to include four cleanups per day and participation in the MPD FUSUS camera system. Approved 2-1-1-1 (Pratt, Jackson aye; Zamarripa no; Brower excused; Burgelis abstain).
• Magic Foods Renewal: After extensive debate, the committee approved the food dealer license with a warning letter and amendments (security 3pm-9pm, ID scanner, restricted alcohol sales 8-9am and 2-3:30pm weekdays). The Class A malt/liquor license was renewed with a 20-day suspension based on evidence of loitering and failure to comply with the plan of operation. Vote 5-0.
• Other notable approvals: Aldi #19 (held), Wendy's #2 (held), High Dive (renewed with warning letter), Silk on Water (renewed with warning letter), Cambria Hotel (approved), Country Inn Milwaukee Airport (renewed with warning letter), Travelodge Milwaukee (renewed with warning letter, amended security hours), and many others.

Key Outcomes

• File 260229 (Punta Cana revocation): Recommended for placement on file (5-0).
• File 260318 (General licenses): Recommended for approval as amended (5-0).
• 20-Day Suspension: Magic Foods' liquor license suspended for 20 days, effective upon council approval.
• Warning Letters: Issued to several establishments including High Dive, Country Inn, Travelodge, Milwaukee Food Market, and others.
• Held Items: Several applications were held to the call of the chair due to applicant non-appearance, pending BOZA approval, or lack of local counsel (e.g., Aldi, Wendy's, Burleigh Quick Mart, Center St BP).
• Denial: Fresh Food and Meat Supermarket's application for beer/cider license was denied based on concentration of alcohol licenses (3-2 vote).

The meeting adjourned at 3:35 PM.