Title
Resolution to Revise Previous Approval of Issuance of New Full-Year Class C Quota Liquor License in the City of Ann Arbor to A2WINEMAN, LLC
Memorandum
Following the results of the 2020 decennial census and the return of one Class C license to Ann Arbor, the City had eight new Class C licenses available to issue under the State’s Class C quota system in early 2022.
The Liquor License Review Committee designed and implemented a competitive application process for the eight available licenses. At their meeting on May 6, 2022, the Committee reviewed all applications submitted by the deadline, with particular interest in applicants who intend to enhance the community with the uniqueness of their business, diversify the city's offerings, and illustrate commitment and actions related to the City's A2ZERO initiative. The Liquor License Review Committee voted to recommend that City Council approve a recommendation to the State Liquor Control Commission for the issuance of new Class C licenses to the eight businesses listed below “above all others:” City Council approved the recommendations on June 6, 2022.
• A2WINEMAN, LLC at 512 S. Main St. Ann Arbor, MI 48104
• Chela’s Restaurant and Taqueria, LLC at 693 S. Maple Rd. Ann Arbor, MI 48103
• Jibarito A2, LLC at 309 S. Main St. Ann Arbor, MI 48104
• Lowertown Proper, LLC at 1031 Broadway St. Ann Arbor, MI 48105
• Majek, LLC at 407 N. Fifth Ave. Ann Arbor, MI 48104
• Spiedo, LLC at 307 S. Fifth St. Ann Arbor, MI 48104
• The Upkeep Games, LLC at 2121 W. Stadium Blvd. Ann Arbor, MI 48103
• Up From The Skies, LLC at 210 S. Main St. Ann Arbor, MI 48104
Since that time, A2WINEMAN, LLC, has determined a need to modify their original application to include space in both of their buildings, 504 S. Main to 512 S. Main. The expansion of the location will allow for A2WINEMAN to open their restaurant, Zinovia’s, in conjunction with their retail wine shop at 504 S. Main St. All other aspects of the application remain the same, per the applicant.
The Council Liquor License Review Committee has reviewed the proposed revision to the application and recommends approval.
Staff
Prepared by: Jacqueline Beaudry, City Clerk
Reviewed by: John Reiser, Assistant City Attorney
Sponsored by: Council Liquor License Review Committee
Body
Whereas, The City of Ann Arbor was notified by the State of Michigan Liquor Control Commission that the City had eight on-premise Class C liquor license available for award under the State’s quota system;
Whereas, The decision to recommend issuance of a new quota liquor license is the prerogative of the local governmental unit;
Whereas, The City Council has established a Liquor License Review Committee to review all applications for liquor licenses in the City of Ann Arbor;
Whereas, The Liquor License Review Committee designed and implemented a competitive application process, including the publication of this process inviting applications from new and existing businesses;
Whereas, The Liquor License Review Committee reviewed all applications submitted within the prescribed process, with particular interest in applicants who intend to enhance the community with the uniqueness of their business, diversify the city's offerings, and commitment and actions related to the city's A2ZERO initiative;
Whereas, At their meeting on June 6, 2022, City Council recommended that one of the licenses be awarded to A2WINEMAN, LLC at 512 S. Main St. Ann Arbor MI 48104; and
Whereas, A2WINEMAN, LLC would like to expand the approval of their Class C Liquor License to include both of its buildings located at 504 - 512 S. Main Street;
RESOLVED, That the City Council revises its previous recommendation and further recommends that the Michigan Liquor Control Commission consider the request from A2WINEMAN, LLC for Approval “Above All Others” at 504 - 512 S. Main St. Ann Arbor, MI 48104 and that the application be recommended for issuance of a new full-year Class C license; and
RESOLVED, That the City Clerk forward a copy of this resolution to A2WINEMAN, LLC and the Michigan Liquor Control Commission.
Sponsored by: Council Liquor License Review Committee