HomeMy WebLinkAboutLiquor Licensing Authority - Minutes - 10/28/1992LIQUOR LICENSING AUTHORITYMINUTES
Regular Meeting - October 28, 1992`
6:30 p.m.
Council Liaison: Bob Winokur Staff Liaison: Rita Knoll Harris
A regular meeting of the Liquor Licensing Authority was held on Wednesday,
October 28, 1992, in the Council Chambers of the Fort Collins Municipal Building.
The following members were present: Crowfoot, Mael, Norton, Poncelow, Schroeer,
and Wawro. (Authority member Cooper arrived at approximately 6:35 p.m.)
Staff Members Present: John Duval, City Attorney's Office
Rita Knoll Harris, City Clerk's Office
Troy Krenning, Police Department
Consent Calendar
The Consent Calendar is intended to expedite the meeting and allow the Authority
to spend its time and energy on the important items on a lengthy agenda. Anyone
may request that an item be "pulled" off the Consent Calendar and considered
separately. Items pulled from the Consent Calendar will be considered separately
immediately following adoption of the Consent Calendar.
This is a request from MCP, Inc., the tavern licensee for Gators, 1220
West Elizabeth, to change the trade name of the establishment to
Tanquerayz.
2. Report of Change of Corporate Structure for the Benevolent and Protective
Order of Elks #804, dba Elks Lodge #804, 140 East Oak.
The Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks #804, the club licensee for
Elks Lodge #804, 140 East Oak, is reporting a change of corporate
officers. Darrel Walker is replacing Stanley Cole as president, Stanley
Cole is replacing Hugh Hiigel as vice-president, Edmund Robert is
replacing Raymond Ford as secretary, and Leo McKittrick is replacing James
McIver as treasurer.
3. Report of Change of Manager for Pizza Hut Restaurant, 4643 South Mason.
Larimer County Pizza Hut, Inc., the 3.2% beer licensee for Pizza Hut
Restaurant, 4643 South Mason, is reporting a change of manager. Gary
Bolton is replacing Darryl Hagen.
October 28, 1992
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5
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Report of Chance of Manager for Pizza Hut Restaurant. 1075 Pennock Place.
Winny Enterprises, Inc., the 3.2% beer licensee for Pizza Hut Restaurant,
1075 Pennock Place, is reporting a change of manager. Gary Bolton is
replacing Victoria (Laviolette) Bertucci.
Transfer of Ownership of Pizza Hut Restaurant, 4643 South Mason.
This is a request to transfer the ownership of Pizza Hut Restaurant, 4643
South Mason, from Larimer County Pizza Hut, Inc. to Winny Enterprises,
Inc.
Transfer of Ownership of Wine and Liquor Specials, 2439 South College #C4.
This is a request to transfer the ownership of Wine and Liquor Specials,
2439 South College #C-4, from Wagib and Hanan Shuweihat to Hanan
Shuweihat.
Authority member Mael made a motion, seconded by Authority member Norton, to
adopt and approve all items not removed from the Consent Calendar. Yeas:
Crowfoot, Mael, Norton, Poncelow, Schroeer, and Wawro. Nays: None.
THE MOTION CARRIED
Registration of Richard Lucio
as Manager of The Armadillo,
354 Walnut, Approved
Richard Lucio, manager, stated that he previously owned and managed a licensed
establishment in Arizona and noted he had no violations while managing that
restaurant. He indicated he also had no violations when he managed the Armadillo
restaurant in La Salle, Colorado. He pointed out that 10 years ago he managed
the Fort Collins Armadillo and had no violations then.
Authority member Mael made a motion, seconded by Authority member Cooper, to
approve Richard Lucio as manager of The Armadillo, 354 Walnut. Yeas: Cooper,
Crowfoot, Mael, Norton, Poncelow, Schroeer, and Wawro. Nays: None.
THE MOTION CARRIED.
Registration of Brad Smith as Manager
of Lone Star Steakhouse and Saloon,
100 West Troutman Parkway, Approved
Brad Smith, manager, and David Osborn, attorney, introduced themselves.
Mr. Smith stated that in his experience managing restaurants, there was only one
violation at the Olive Garden in Denver two weeks after opening. He noted he was
not on duty at the time, but still took responsibility for the violation as
general manager. He indicated he is currently familiarizing himself with the
Colorado and Fort Collins liquor codes. He spoke of training provided to
• • October 28, 1992
employees and noted the staff is instructed to card anyone who appears to be
under 30 years of age.
Authority member Mael made a motion, seconded by Authority member Cooper, to
approve Brad Smith as manager of Lone Star Steakhouse and Saloon, 100 West
Troutman Parkway. Yeas: Cooper, Crowfoot, Mael, Norton, Poncelow, Schroeer, and
Wawro. Nays: None.
THE MOTION CARRIED.
Registration of Margaret Luckenbill as
Manager of The Neighborhood Grill,
1113 West Drake, Approved
Margaret Luckenbill, manager, spoke of her prior experience working at licensed
establishments and noted there were no violations at any of those establishments.
She explained The Neighborhood Grill management staff conducts one-on-one
training with their waitstaff and indicated they card anyone who appears to be
under the age of 35. She stated that the managers usually serve as bartenders,
noting they often recheck ID if they believe the waitstaff may have made an
error. She indicated she is on premise approximately 40 to 45 hours a week.
Authority member Mael made a motion, seconded by Authority member Cooper, to
approve Margaret Luckenbill as manager of The Neighborhood Grill, 1113 West
Drake. Yeas: Cooper, Crowfoot, Mael, Norton, Poncelow, Schroeer, and Wawro.
Nays: None.
THE MOTION CARRIED.
Consideration of an Application
from the Colorado State University
Department of Music, Theatre, and
Dance for a Special Events Permit at
the Lory Student Center, Approved
Authority member Crowfoot withdraw from consideration and vote on this item due
to a perceived conflict of interest.
Lee Egbert, Director of Choral Activities, stated he has been involved with the
choral program here since 1987 and for 12 years before that in another state.
He indicated that there is one change from the event the Authority approved last
year: there will be more training of the wine stewards. He noted that his
department, rather than the caterers, will be choosing, hiring, and instructing
these people and they will be over 21. He indicated they will be instructed to
card any attendee who appears to be under the age of 30 and there will be only
one glass of wine served per customer. He noted there have been no problems at
past events.
• October 28, 1992
Authority member Poncelow made a motion, seconded by Authority member Mael, to
approve the special events permit for the Department of Music, Theatre, and Dance
at the Lory Student Center on December 3, 4, and 5. Yeas: Cooper, Mael, Norton,
Poncelow, Schroeer, and Wawro. Nays: None. (Authority member Crowfoot
withdrawn)
THE MOTION CARRIED.
Request from Pringle Enterprises, Inc.,
dba Pringle Brothers Fine Wine and
Spirits, 2100 West Drake Road #11,
to Change, Alter, or Modify the
Premises. Found Substantial and Approved
Phil Pringle, owner, approached the Authority with a floor plan showing the
proposed modifications. He stated that they are taking over unoccupied, adjacent
tenant space. He indicated there will be no entry or exit or cash registers in
the new space, but it will be used to expand the wine department due to demand.
He noted one wall will be torn down between the existing store and the new space.
He noted that the business has experienced rapid growth over the last 3 years,
and he needs to expand to accommodate customer requests. He stated that the
expansion should increase business 5 to 8 percent.
Authority member Poncelow made a motion, seconded by Authority member Norton, to
find that the modification of Pringle Enterprises, Inc., dba Pringle Brothers
Fine Wine and Spirits, 2100 West Drake Road #11, is substantial. Yeas: Cooper,
Crowfoot, Mael, Norton, Poncelow, Schroeer, and Wawro. Nays: None.
THE MOTION CARRIED.
Phil Pringle was sworn. He stated he had submitted a letter from one of his most
knowledgeable customers expressing support for the expansion. He noted that his
other customers and nearby business owners have expressed their support verbally,
and that there have been no negative comments about the expansion.
Assistant City Attorney John Duval stated that Applicant's Exhibit A, a letter
from Ms. Judy Schindler, 2301 Sheffield Drive, is admissible into evidence.
Upon questioning from the Authority, Mr. Pringle stated again that he believes
more open space will allow room for shopping carts to get into the wine
department more easily and thus increase sales. He noted that the expanded area
will be used exclusively for upscale wines, particularly some red wines that are
gaining in popularity.
Officer Troy Krenning noted Mr. Pringle and his establishment have been very
responsible. He stated Mr. Pringle and his employees recently attended TIPS
training. Officer Krenning recommended approval of the modification based on the
record of the establishment.
Authority member Schroeer made a motion, seconded by Authority member Mael, to
approve the modification of Pringle Enterprises, Inc., dba Pringle Brothers Fine
Wine and Spirits, 2100 West Drake Road #11. Yeas: Cooper, Crowfoot, Mael,
• • October 28, 1992
Norton, Poncelow, Schroeer, and Wawro. Nays: None.
THE MOTION CARRIED.
Request from Frank and Mary Perez,
dba Pobre Panchos, 1802 North
College, to Change, Alter, or Modify the
Premises. Found Substantial and Approved
Frank Perez, owner, stated he wants to add 935 square feet to the licensed
premises, which will include 20 additional seats, more kitchen space, and a
handicapped bathroom. He indicated the addition will extend into the present
parking lot on the east side of the building. He indicated that his present
seating capacity is 38. He stated that the service bar will be relocated to the
addition.
Authority member Mael made a motion, seconded by Authority member Norton, to find
that the proposed modification to Pobre Panchos, 1802 North College, is
substantial. Yeas: Cooper, Crowfoot, Mael, Norton, Poncelow, Schroeer, and
Wawro. Nays: None.
THE MOTION CARRIED.
Frank Perez was sworn.
Assistant City Attorney John Duval identified Applicant's Exhibits A through F
as letters of support. He stated that Exhibits A through E were admissible into
evidence, but that Exhibit F is not admissible due to a lack of name or address.
Mr. Perez stated that his establishment may be open until 9:30 p.m. on Fridays
and Saturdays, which is 1/2 hour longer than current closing time. He noted that
his current liquor sales are 15% and he does not expect any increase with the
additional seats. He indicated there has been no opposition to the proposed
changes. He stated there will be a total of 30 parking spaces after the
expansion.
Authority member Poncelow made a motion, seconded by Authority member Mael, tc
approve the modification of Pobre Panchos, 1802 North College. Yeas: Cooper,
Crowfoot, Mael, Norton, Poncelow, Schroeer, and Wawro. Nays: None.
THE MOTION CARRIED.
Request from CooperSmith Brewing
Company, dba CooperSmith's Pub and
Brewing, #5 Old Town Square, to Change,
Alter, or Modify the Premises,
Found Substantial and Approved
Scott Smith, owner, stipulated that the change is substantial since the proposed
modification will double the size of the establishment.
•
• October 28, 1992
Authority member Wawro disclosed that he had discussed these changes briefly on
an informal basis with Scott and Mark at Coopersmith's and noted it would not
affect his decision in this matter.
Scott Smith was sworn. He gave the history of the establishment, stating that
CooperSmith's opened in 1989. He noted they have expanded the brewery once
already and are at full capacity. He indicated that during the cold weather they
lose their patio seating, which is a 50% reduction in their business. He noted
they have a large family clientele, and when people with children have to wait
for 45 minutes for a table, it is bad for business. Mr. Smith stated that
customers have told him he needs more room. He indicated he considered expanding
to the second floor, but the ADA guidelines are too restrictive. He stated that
by expanding the way they are proposing, they will be able to increase the
brewery size by about 30 percent. He spoke of the lengthy process to get to this
point. He stated that because of all the rules and regulations, they need to
lease the space between CooperSmith's and Comedy Works to establish a continuous
licensed premises. He noted that the first step they took was with the Downtown
Development Authority (DDA), which owns the 'land between the two buildings. He
indicated that the DDA "quit claimed" the land to the owners of Old Town Square,
who in turn leased it to him. He stated that the next step was with the Landmark
Preservation Committee (LPC), which approves all structural and cosmetic changes.
He noted that after two conceptual meetings, he will be meeting with the LPC next
Wednesday for the final approval of the design. He stated he has also worked
closely with City Planning, and met with the State Liquor Division to discuss the
plans. He noted that the State indicated they want a line of demarcation at each
end of the courtyard so a customer knows where the pub begins and ends. He
stated that the wrought iron arch on either end will be a cosmetic and functional
link between the structures.
Secretary Rita Harris stated that she met with Mr. Smith and the State Liquor
Division in order to make sure what the State's position was concerning the
contiguous space. She indicated the State saw no problem with the final drawings
as submitted and with the concept, and as long as the proof of possession
documents meet the legal requirements.
Mr. Smith stated that there will be an arch on each end of the courtyard to
define it as their entry courtyard. He noted they will construct an easy
pedestrian flow through there. He indicated he has no intentions of turning this
into a beer garden and that there will never be a beer table or drinking in this
area. He stated that customers will not be allowed to buy a drink in one area
and walk across to the other. He indicated it will be controlled in the same way
as it is now, i.e. no alcohol will go out the door. He noted there will be signs
stating, "No alcohol beyond this point." He emphasized there is no intention of
changing the character of the courtyard, that it will still be a pedestrian
access to Old Town Square.
Mr. Smith indicated that within the new interior space there will be an upscale
billiards parlor, which is a new trend all over the country. He stated that he
will be targeting existing clientele, giving them something to do at
Coopersmith's. He noted the menu will feature pizza. He indicated that this is
a major character change and that the new space will be a more active bar. He
noted that Coopersmith's presently runs a 60/40 split of food to alcohol. He
stated he projects the new space to do a 50/50 mix but with less volume, which
• • October 28, 1992
will change the total mix to 58/42.
He pointed out that this is all one space, all Coopersmith's with the same
management team, same governing philosophies, same standards. He stated they
have a very pro -active in-house alcohol training program. He noted that he and
his manager, Mark, train the alcohol servers on a one-to-one basis. He briefly
explained the program they use, called "SMART" (Service, Monitoring, Analyzing,
Reacting, and Talking).
Assistant City Attorney John Duval identified Applicant's Exhibits A and B as
petitions, Exhibit C as a letter from the Executive Director of the Downtown
Business Association, and Exhibit D as a letter from the Executive Director of
the Downtown Development Authority. He noted all exhibits were admissible into
evidence.
Upon questioning from the Authority, Mr. Smith stated there will be no live
entertainment. He noted the new area will seat approximately 100 and there will
be 7 pool tables. Regarding the needs and desires of the neighborhood, he spoke
briefly about the supporting letters and petitions which were entered as
evidence. He indicated there is a wide variety of business owners in the
downtown area, and that everyone was very supportive of this as an addition to
Old Town. He stated that people questioned in the door-to-door survey were very
supportive also. He noted that the demographics of the neighborhood have not
changed substantially since the initial petitioning for the existing liquor
license. He pointed out that the premises have been posted, with positive
comments resulting, and that the local newspapers have covered the process
closely. Mr. Smith stated that families can eat in the new proposed facility and
that their homemade sodas will also be available in the new area. He emphasized
again that customers will not be allowed to transfer their alcoholic beverages
between buildings. He noted there will continue to be benches in the courtyard,
but no table seating and no food or beverage service.
Secretary Harris noted that the delineation of the boundary area was Lemay,
Pitkin, Shields and Conifer, approximately 1 mile in each direction. She also
pointed out that the floor plans presented indicate that there are some overhead
beams on the interior of the courtyard that she believes are not actually going
to be included in the final design.
Mr. Smith approached the Authority with the final renderings of the proposed
changes.
Assistant City Attorney John Duval identified the drawings as Exhibits E and F
and stated they were admissible into evidence.
In response to questions from the Authority, Mr. Smith noted that there will be
covenants imposed by the Downtown Development Authority that Coopersmith's cannot
serve liquor in that courtyard. He indicated this was something that still had
to be worked out on the State level. He stated that the covenants are not in
place yet, that the attorney for the DDA is still working with Foxfire to do
this. He noted that the DDA and the owners of Old Town Limited Properties would
have an agreement they will pass on to Coopersmith's prohibiting them from
serving alcohol in the courtyard area. He indicated that the liquor license
would not prohibit him from allowing alcohol in that area. Mr. Smith noted that
• • October 28, 1992
there is just one entrance/exit in the new facility and the others are fire
doors. He stated that the original Comedy Works entrance will be used as a
service entrance for the brewery.
Officer Troy Krenning stated there are few management teams and owners that
Police Services would feel comfortable supporting, and recommended approval of
the modification.
Authority member Poncelow made a motion, seconded by Authority member Norton, to
approve the modification of CooperSmith's Pub and Brewing, #5 Old Town Square.
Authority member Cooper stated he will support the motion but he has strong
reservations about the courtyard area. He noted that since it is being approved
as part of the establishment, the Authority cannot stop the liquor from being in
the courtyard area, but he is relying on Mr. Smith's assurance that there will
not be any liquor out there.
Authority member Crowfoot stated she would support the motion, but noted she has
some reservations about the courtyard. She indicated she believes Mr. Smith has
worked with everyone he needs to and expressed hope that it will work in the way
the Authority would like to see it done.
The vote was on Authority member Poncelow's motion was as follows: Yeas:
Cooper, Crowfoot, Mael, Norton, Poncelow, Schroeer, and Wawro. Nays: None.
THE MOTION CARRIED.
Transfer of Ownership of Peoples Bar,
934 South Lemay, and Trade Name
Change to Godfather's Pizza, Approved
Mario Miano, part owner of the Godfather's Pizza on South College Avenue, stated
he will be manager of both locations, dividing his time between the two. He
indicated the Lemay Avenue Godfather's will be open in December with the same
type of operation as the South College location. He noted that he anticipates
3% beer sales at the Lemay Godfather's. He stated there will be a patio, and he
approached the Authority with the floor plan. Mr. Miano noted the patio will
have a potential of 60 seats. He indicated there will be a 4-foot to 5-foot
fence around the patio with the only access to the patio being through the
restaurant.
Upon questioning from the Authority, Secretary Rita Harris explained why a few
key items were crossed out and changed on the notarized background investigation
questionnaires. She stated that when an applicant has recently filed documents
for another similar establishment, this is allowed in lieu of filling out another
set of papers. She indicated she did not consider this a problem since these
documents were more for the Authority and her to match up with the application.
She pointed out that G.F. Four Investments will now have a tavern license and a
3.2 license in Fort Collins.
Mr. Miano stated that the Lemay Avenue establishment will operate the same as the
other Godfather's Pizza. He indicated that down the road they might go to a full
• • October 28, 1992
service type establishment and would come back to the Authority at that time if
they decided to do this. He noted that the customers take the beer with them to
the tables at the time they purchase the food at the counter. He stated he does
not anticipate serving anything but beer, although the tavern license would allow
him to do so.
Authority member Schroeer made a motion, seconded by Authority member Norton, to
approve the transfer of ownership of Peoples Bar, 934 South Lemay, and Trade Name
Change to Godfather's Pizza. Yeas: Cooper, Crowfoot, Mael, Norton, Poncelow,
Schroeer, and Wawro. Nays: None.
THE MOTION CARRIED.
Transfer of Ownership of Coco Loco
Taqueria and Cantina, 134 South
College, and Trade Name Change to
El Jacalito Restaurant, Approved
Jose Luis Fuerte, owner, stated that the restaurant will have the same menu and
format. He indicated that he now has a full service waitstaff. He noted that
the alcohol is prepared at a service bar and taken to the table. He stated there
is no lounge area. He indicated he has no prior liquor license experience. He
stated he is reading the laws and regulations and will set up a program to train
his employees for serving and carding. He indicated that the present policy is
to card everybody. He stated he has been operating the establishment for 1-1/2
months, noting he helped his brother previously when it was Coco Loco. He
indicated his brother is helping him become familiarized with the restaurant.
Authority member Poncelow made a motion, seconded by Authority member Cooper, to
approve the transfer of ownership of Coco Loco Taqueria and Cantina, 134 South
College, and Trade Name Change to E1 Jacalito Restaurant. Yeas: Cooper,
Crowfoot, Mael, Norton, Poncelow, Schroeer, and Wawro. Nays: None.
THE MOTION CARRIED.
Transfer of Ownership of
J.J. McCabe's Sports Grille,
518 West Laurel, and Trade Name
Change to Smiling Moose, Approved
John Kincaid, president of Laurel Street, Inc. was sworn (at his request). He
spoke of his background in the restaurant business, beginning in 1970. He stated
he managed The Junction Eating Place for approximately four years, then moved
into a regional manager role, staying with Concept Restaurants for 12 years. He
noted he was also involved with the Prime Minister and Old Chicago at various
times. He indicated he started his own company in 1986, buying the restaurant
in Greeley and making it into what is now the Smiling Moose Bar and Grille. He
noted he opened another Smiling Moose in Rochester, Minnesota, 1-1/2 years ago
and now owns what was formerly J.J. McCabe's. He indicated he has been involved
with liquor and food for almost 17 years. He submitted menus to the Authority.
Ll
• October 28, 1992
Assistant City Attorney John Duval stated Applicant's Exhibit A, identified as
a menu, was admissible into evidence.
Mr. Kincaid stated that his Smiling Moose restaurants are family -oriented
establishments with a 60/40 percent split in food to liquor. He noted he
projected the same 60/40 split in the Fort Collins restaurant. He indicated
there are many promos oriented toward children and the community, such as
Halloween and Christmas, with the focus on food. He spoke of the modifications
he is making to the premises. He stated that at present he does not plan to use
the patio area for a bar and late night drinking, but only for dining. He
indicated he has had several meetings with the neighborhood and Officer Krenning
and is fully aware of past problems in the area. He stated that his management
style and philosophy is quite different from Concept Restaurants. He indicated
he will not have live entertainment and that a food menu will be served all the
way until closing at 1:30 to 2:00 a.m. He noted that in his other restaurants
he promotes and serves food in the lounge. He stated he hopes that people in the
neighborhood will not judge his management based upon what has been done in the
past by the previous management. He indicated he believes he can work together
with the neighborhood committees, his management team, and Police Services to try
to avoid situations that have caused past problems.
In response to questions from the Authority, Mr. Kincaid stated the proposed
opening is November 15. He indicated that the character of the Fort Collins
restaurant will change completely from the J.J. McCabe's sports bar atmosphere.
He stated that the inside and outside appearance of the restaurant will be
changed, and although there will be some TV's and video -type games, there will
be no pool tables. He compared the atmosphere of the establishment to the County
Cork, Potts, and CooperSmith's, with casual family, faculty, and business
clientele. He indicated there will be Happy Hours with discount drinks but there
won't be give-away drink specials such as Ladies Night or five -far -ones. He
noted he will have ongoing food -oriented specials, such as a Sunday all -you -can -
eat pork ribs. Mr. Kincaid clarified that the patio will be used for dining
only, and not for bar -related activities. He noted the new physical layout of
the restaurant has the patio off the dining room, not the lounge.
Secretary Harris stated that a background investigation has been completed on
Christopher Kildow, the manager of the Smiling Moose, but that he was not given
a manager registration form to complete. She requested the Authority consider
Mr. Kildow's qualification as manager while she gets the form for him to
complete.
Christopher Kildow, manager, approached the Authority with the company training
manual.
Assistant City Attorney John Duval marked the training manual as Applicant's
Exhibit B and stated it was admissible into evidence.
Mr. Kildow noted that the first page of the training manual contained an outline
of the manual. He stated he was in charge of training at the Greeley and
Rochester restaurants for a total of 3-1/2 years. He explained that he sits down
with each employee on five different days, for 1-1/2 hours each day, and covers
the manual word for word, expanding on topics as necessary. He noted that the
employee is tested over each day's section and must pass with 90 percent or
• • October 28, 1992
better to be on the floor alone. He spoke of the carding policy, stating there
will be a doorman on duty at the entrance to the lounge beginning at 5:00 p.m.
(at least for the time being) who will card each person who enters. He noted the
cocktail waitress will card the person again when he sits down. He spoke of the
training given staff with regard to overserving. He noted that people ordering
liquor in the restaurant will be carded by the server. He indicated he will
train the staff and will be acting as the floor manager for the first two months,
as well as the general manager. Upon questioning from the Authority, he stated
that at the other establishments the doorman is not on duty until 8:00 p.m.
because the crowd tends to come in later.
In response to questions from the Authority, Mr. Kincaid stated that he purchased
all assets and equipment inside the restaurant and has signed a 10-year lease on
the building. He indicated that Concept Restaurants will have no financial
interest in the ownership. He noted that the only connection between Laurel
Street, Inc. and Concept Restaurants will be in lease form.
In response to questions from the Authority, Assistant City Attorney Duval stated
the Colorado Liquor Code states, "In determining whether to permit a transfer of
ownership, the licensing authority shall consider only the requirements of
Section 12-47-111." He pointed out that Section 12-47-111 covers the issue of
moral character. He stated that needs and desires of the neighborhood are not
an issue in a transfer of ownership.
Mark Rosoff, 635 South Whitcomb, stated he believes the Authority failed to
address the needs of the neighborhood when the character of the restaurant/bar
was being changed. He offered instances when he believed the neighborhood was
not served by the Authority. He stated he believes Frank Day still has a stake
in what happens at the establishment and that Mr. Day has a percentage interest
in the gross profits. He strongly stated that even though the establishment will
be half restaurant, it will still remain half bar, and the character of the
establishment will not be changed significantly by this new arrangement. He
asked the Authority to consider the moral character, not just of the person who
is applying for the license, but that of the very character of the bar. He noted
that the neighborhood is tired of the past situation and cannot wait another year
to find out that no one can control the neighborhood. He asked the Authority to
consider whether the neighborhood really needs a bar of any kind in that
location.
In response to a question from the Authority, Mr. Rosoff indicated that he was
not a part of the neighborhood group that worked on the stipulation agreement for
the last violation at J.J. McCabes. He stated he was told at that time that the
stipulations were probably the best that this board would agree to. He noted he
thought they should have asked for closing at the time.
Authority member Cooper commented that he believed Mr. Rosoff was expecting more
from the board than what Mr. Rosoff was willing to give them. He stated he
remembered the hearing well because he had opposed the agreement that was brought
forth. He noted, however, that he could not fault the board for approving it
simply because, while Mr. Rosoff had some strong, valid objections to what
occurred, Mr. Rosoff did not come forward and express his concerns. He indicated
that all the Authority had to go on was what was presented and they had to go on
the evidence that was before them.
•
• October 28, 1992
Mr. Rosoff stated he was lead to believe that getting the stipulation agreement
approved by the licensee was a major hurdle. He noted that the provisions about
the hours of operation and security in the parking lot are now being bypassed.
Authority member Cooper recommended that if Mr. Rosoff sees violations to the
stipulations, he should call the City and have them bring a case before the
Authority. He noted that at present the Authority needs to deal with the matter
before them.
Karen Anthony (sp?), identified only as a resident of the neighborhood, stated
that she was at the show cause hearing and that there was no opportunity for
citizen comment. She indicated that had there been opportunity, she would have
spoken up at that point to let the Authority know what the group was really
feeling. She noted the neighborhood has been working with the Police for two
years, and indicated it was very frustrating to be told to go back and continue
to work with the Police.
Jean Kamal, 645 South Whitcomb, expressed her appreciation for the meeting with
Mr. Kincaid. She stated she concurred with Mr. Rosoff that it's been difficult
living in that area and that they hope to restore it by getting the landlords and
absentee landlords to establish a certain quality to their leases. She noted
that what goes on at the Smiling Moose will be part of the neighborhood group's
attention. She stated they shared Mr. Kincaid's hope that this will be a
successful venture that will enhance the neighborhood. She indicated that it is
always difficult to control serving liquor to students and it will take excellent
management to do so. She expressed her concern about the hours of closing
contributing to many of the past problems. She stated the group would like to
negotiate with Mr. Kincaid to consider an earlier closing time than 2:00 a.m.
Officer Troy Krenning stated that the establishment has been a reoccurring
problem for the Authority and Police Services. He indicated that past management
of The Junction, The Junction Bar and Grille, and J.J. McCabes were not
responsible, did not do their job, and turned the place into something that
should not have been. He expressed the belief that the Authority, the
neighborhood, and the Police Department were shanghaied into believing that only
beer, wine, and cocktails were going to be served to the dinner customers
throughout the evening business. He stated everyone was told the patio was going
to be turned into a croquet course, which never happened. He indicated what it
did turn into was a rowdy, free-for-all drunken hang-out that turned into a
renegade bar. He stated that unfortunately, the Authority isn't here tonight to
decide where mistakes were made in the past. He noted that the Police Department
would not pre -judge this applicant.
Officer Krenning indicated that he met with Mr. Kincaid and the neighborhood
association, and that Mr. Kincaid is well aware of the past problems that have
taken place at 518 West Laurel. He noted that Mr. Kincaid is well aware that
Police Services will not tolerate any violations that may occur there. He stated
Mr. Kincaid has indicated that the patio will not become a brawling, drunken
playground for college students. Officer Krenning noted that he shares the
neighborhood's frustrations. He indicated that Mr. Kincaid has given no reason
to distrust him tonight. Officer Krenning stated that Mr. Kincaid has been
forewarned about the consequences that lie ahead of him should the liquor code
be violated. Officer Krenning stated that the Police Department has done the
October 28, 1992
standard background check that is required to ascertain the moral character of
Mr. Kincaid and has found no flaws. Officer Krenning noted he personally made
a trip to the Smiling Moose in Greeley and spoke to Greeley police officers. He
indicated he can find no reason to suggest that the Fort Collins Smiling Moose
will be anything less than an upstanding, law-abiding business.
In response to questions from the Authority, Assistant City Attorney John Duval
stated that the prior stipulation agreement for J.J. McCabes will not carry over
to the new owner. He noted that Frank Day's $135,000 equipment lease loan would
not be considered an ownership interest, but a debtor -creditor relationship. He
stated it sounds like Mr. Kincaid has purchased the assets of the business from
Mr. Day, and Mr. Day has carried back some kind of financing. He noted that
under the law the new corporation owns those assets and they are debtors of Mr.
Day. He noted the creditor can only exercise his interest by foreclosing on the
property if there's a default of the payments, but otherwise he doesn't have any
other controls over the assets or how they're used so long as they're not removed
from the state.
Mr. Kincaid indicated that neither Concept Restaurants nor Mr. Day will have any
control in the business, either directly or indirectly, providing that he makes
his payments. He stated there is a $135,000 note to Concept Restaurants to
purchase the assets in the restaurant. He emphasized that he has spent a lot of
money to make a sure substantial change is being made in the restaurant.
Secretary Harris gave the completed manager registration application to the
Authority to look at before they made motions.
Authority member Cooper made a motion, seconded by Authority member Norton, to
approve the transfer of ownership of J.J. McCabe's Sports Grille, 518 West
Laurel, and Trade Name Change to the Smiling Moose.
Authority member Crowfoot stated she will vote in favor of the motion, with much
reservation. She expressed concern over the past situation and what the
neighborhood has had to go through. She cautioned Mr. Kincaid that he will be
under heavy scrutiny, and that the Authority probably won't be tolerant should
any violations occur.
Authority member Norton indicated she will support the motion. She noted that
trying to lay blame on past Authority members for the situation would not help.
She indicated that having been in the bar and restaurant business in the past,
she does believe there are responsible liquor license holders in Fort Collins.
Authority member Wawro stated that under the current statutes the Authority is
only to look at the moral character of the applicant and not the moral character
or history of the premises.
Authority member Cooper agreed that the Authority does not have a lot of choice
in the matter as far as the business itself. He stated that in looking over the
documentation provided, he sees no reason to believe Mr. Kincaid will not be an
upstanding citizen of the community. He noted, however, that should the City
bring a strong case of violation before the Authority, he will be quick to put
as strong a sanction against him as he possibly can. He stated he has talked
with the citizens in the community and they have some very valid complaints.
• October 28, 1992
The vote on Authority Member Cooper's motion was as follows: Yeas: Cooper,
Crowfoot, Mae], Norton, Poncelow, Schroeer, and Wawro. Nays: None.
THE MOTION CARRIED.
In response to a question from the Authority, Secretary Harris stated that Mr.
Kildow's background information was included in the agenda. She noted that the
State recently requested a separate manager registration form with hotel -
restaurant license applications.
Authority member Norton made a motion, seconded by Authority member Poncelow, to
approve Christopher Kildow as manager of the Smiling Moose, 518 West Laurel.
Yeas: Cooper, Crowfoot, Mael, Norton, Poncelow, Schroeer, and Wawro. Nays:
None.
THE MOTION CARRIED.
Show Cause Hearing for
Rocky Mountain Pasta Company,
1100 West Drake
Officer Troy Krenning stated that Slappey Mountain Enterprises, Inc., has agreed
to stipulate to the facts of the violation.
Tom Kindler was sworn. He stated he will be registering as manager at the
December meeting.
Assistant City Attorney John Duval questioned Mr. Kindler's authority to
stipulate to any kind of violation because he is not a registered agent for
Slappey Mountain Enterprises.
Mr. Kindler indicated he was in the process of filling out the manager
registration papers, but he has not yet filed them.
Mr. Duval stated his opinion was that technically Mr. Kindler's testimony could
not bind the corporation or Mr. Slappey. He expressed his doubt that the
Authority could proceed with the hearing.
Mr. Kindler explained that Mr. Slappey was in Florida, and Mrs. Slappey was
emotionally unable to attend the meeting. He stated the Slappey's are in the
process of closing down the establishment due to financial difficulties. He
indicated the establishment would be closed as of tomorrow. He stated he was a
representative speaking for Mr. Slappey, who did admit that violations occurred.
He indicated that Mr. Slappey did not intend to turn in his liquor license at
this time since several people are interested in buying the business.
Authority member Cooper made a motion, seconded by Authority member Wawro, to
postpone the show cause hearing for Rocky Mountain Pasta Company, 1100 West Drake
Road, to the December 16, 1992 meeting.
Authority members expressed concern about resolving the issue in the absence of
Mr. Slappey and discussed the situation with Mr. Kindler, Assistant City Attorney
i
October 28, 1992
Duval, and Officer Krenning.
The vote on Authority member Cooper's motion to postpone was as follows: Yeas:
Cooper, Mael, Norton, Poncelow, Schroeer, and Wawro. Nays: Crowfoot.
In response to a question from the Authority, Ms. Harris stated as long as Mr.
Slappey maintains possession of the premises, his liquor license is valid. She
indicated if he should lose possession, he no longer has a license, but the
license is available for transfer for the duration of the license period.
Authority member Cooper asked if someone else were to come in and buy the
establishment or attempt to purchase the assets of the business and wanted the
liquor license transferred to them, would the Authority be in a similar situation
as with J.J. McCabe's, where they would start afresh with the new owner.
Assistant City Attorney John Duval stated he wasn't sure whether the license
could be transferred before the pending violation was resolved.
Ms. Harris stated that the violation is against the licensee and if he loses
possession, he is no longer a licensee. She noted the license would be available
for transfer, but the original licensee would not be involved in that
transaction.
Mr. Duval stated he would need to research this question further.
Ms. Harris added that if the restaurant closes, and an application for a transfer
of ownership comes in, it is not eligible for a temporary permit to operate prior
to approval of the transfer of ownership. She noted a temporary permit allows
for the continued operation of the establishment, and if the establishment has
closed, the operation cannot be continued. She indicated the new owner would
have to come before the Authority for approval and have a new license before he
could begin operation. She noted that if the establishment closes tomorrow, and
a transfer of ownership application is not filed prior to the expiration of the
current license, then it is as if a license never existed at this location.
Officer Krenning requested that the show cause hearing not be delayed any longer
since the licensee has had ample time to prepare and present his case.
Upon questioning from the Authority, Ms. Harris stated that Brenda Slappey, who
is a corporate officer, had called asking that the hearing be postponed. Ms.
Harris indicated that she told Mrs. Slappey she could not administratively
postpone the hearing and that Mrs. Slappey should appear in person to make the
request to postpone it. Ms. Harris noted she had the same discussion with the
Slappey's attorney (Bill Wyatt).
Assistant City Attorney Duval stated that the Authority and Mr. Slappey could
enter into a stipulation agreement with the penalty to be imposed should the
establishment open again.
Mr. Kindler stated he believes that is what Mr. Slappey wants to do and that he
believes that is what Mr. Wyatt was trying to work out.
Mr. Duval stated he never heard back from Mr. Wyatt.
October 28, 1992
The vote on Authority member Cooper's motion to postpone was as follows: Yeas:
Cooper, Mael, Norton, Poncelow, Schroeer, and Wawro. Nays: Crowfoot.
THE MOTION CARRIED.
Request from Slappey Mountain Enterprises,
Inc., dba Rocky Mountain Pasta Company,
1100 West Drake, to Change, Alter,
or Modify the Premises. Postponed
Authority member Schroeer made a motion, seconded by Authority member Cooper, to
postpone the request from Rocky Mountain Pasta Enterprises, Inc., dba Rocky
Mountain Pasta Company, 1100 West Drake Road, to Change, Alter, or Modify the
Premises, to the December 16, 1992 meeting. Yeas: Cooper, Crowfoot, Mael,
Norton, Poncelow, Schroeer, and Wawro. Nays: None.
THE MOTION CARRIED.
Police Report
Officer Krenning stated a lack of resources does not allow the Police Department
to assign an officer full-time to liquor enforcement. He indicated that he has
requested a transfer back to patrol effective the first of the year.
In response to a question from the Authority, Officer Krenning stated he was not
aware of any physical changes taking place at Gators.
Other Business
Secretary Rita Harris displayed the new sign now being used to give the public
notice of a modification application.
Authority member Mael spoke of the discouraging news of Officer Krenning's
transfer to patrol. He state he was discouraged that the Police Department would
not make this position full-time when there are 200 liquor establishments in the
city. He indicated he believed the Authority should send a letter to Chief
Rainguet addressing this concern. He noted he would also like to have a letter
of commendation for Officer Krenning sent to Chief Rainquet acknowledging the
progress Officer Krenning has made.
Authority member Cooper agreed with Authority member Mael. He stated he believes
it is important to let the Chief know that whether he intends to keep Officer
Krenning in this position or have a replacement, that the Authority needs someone
who will continue in the manner as Officer Krenning.
Authority member Schroeer pointed out that in terms of a manpower issue, it is
not going to be a cost savings item because there are going to be police officers
who are going to have to do bar checks, and due to unfamiliar circumstances, it
is going to be inefficient as compared to one individual being very familiar with
what's going on.
• October 28, 1992
Officer McLellan stated he would continue to recommend a full-time liquor
officer, but that at the present, it isn't a reality. He indicated he will
appoint a person to fill Officer Krenning's position and that he is sorry to see
him leave, but there are other good people in the unit. He noted that if he is
allotted more people in the future and can make this a full-time position, he
will.
Adjournment
Authority member Cooper made a motion, seconded by Authority member Norton, to
adjourn. Yeas: Cooper, Crowfoot, Mael, Norton, Poncelow, Schroeer, and Wawro.
Nays: None.
THE MOTION CARRIED.
The meeting was adjourned at approximately 10:00 p.m.
A_11L &r�s
Secretary
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Lhairperson