| COLUMBUS CITY COUNCIL MEDIA ADVISORY For Immediate Release: August 1, 2012 For More Information: John Ivanic, (614) 645-6798 |
CITY COUNCIL BEGINS LIQUOR OBJECTION PROCESS
(COLUMBUS)–Columbus City Councilmember Michelle M. Mills, Chair of the Public Safety and Judiciary Committee, and Columbus City Attorney Richard C. Pfeiffer, Jr. have launched the City’s annual liquor permit renewal objection process.
The State of Ohio Department of Commerce, Division of Liquor Control issues liquor permits, which must be renewed every year. The permit renewal process allows for municipalities to object to the renewal of specific permits based upon the manner in which the permit holder conducts business.
The first step in the City’s objection process requires the input of neighborhood leaders, safety advocates and community members. After receiving public input, the Columbus City Attorney and the Columbus Division of Police investigate problem liquor establishments. In December, Columbus City Council will vote on resolutions which represent the City’s formal objections to establishments found to be operating in an irresponsible manner, outside community standards, or which have placed an excessive burden on law enforcement due to crime or other illegal activity. Last year, Columbus objected to the renewal of nine liquor licenses. So far, five objections have been upheld.
City Council encourages residents and business leaders to participate in the liquor objection process. City Council will hold a public hearing on the process and problem establishments September 12 at 5:00 pm in City Council Chambers. Community input must be received by the Columbus City Attorney by September 21, 2012.
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