In a recent city council meeting, officials discussed the recommendation to deny a Class A special liquor license for a local restaurant, Cantina, citing concerns over compliance with regulations and public safety. The staff's analysis highlighted that only four businesses in the area meet the qualifications for such a license, which requires that at least 51% of sales come from food rather than alcohol.

The council's review included an examination of sales tax revenues, gaming operations, and police activity in the vicinity of the proposed establishment. The data indicated that the restaurant would struggle to meet the necessary food-to-alcohol sales ratio, with the comptroller noting insufficient revenues to support the license's requirements.

Concerns were also raised regarding the restaurant's location, which has seen a significant number of police calls—123 incidents over the past two and a half years, including thefts, disturbances, and assaults. This history has led to apprehensions about the safety and comfort of potential patrons.

The business owner argued that the ability to serve hard alcohol was essential for sustaining operations, but officials pointed out a lack of credible studies linking hard liquor sales to increased food consumption. Instead, they referenced research indicating that higher alcohol availability could lead to irrational behavior, particularly in gaming environments.

The council emphasized their commitment to regulating liquor licenses carefully, especially given the city's ongoing efforts to manage the proliferation of gaming establishments. The recommendation to deny the license reflects a broader strategy to ensure that new businesses align with community standards and safety expectations.