Concerns over liquor licensing and ownership transparency dominated the Bronx Economic Development Committee meeting on December 1, 2024. The committee discussed the application for a new bar and lounge, with members seeking clarity on the establishment's compliance with local alcohol laws and its connection to a previous venue known for violations.

A key point of contention arose regarding the new owner's liquor service hours. Committee members confirmed that while the bar could serve alcohol starting at 10 AM on Sundays, there was confusion about earlier service times. Veronica, a committee member, was tasked with verifying the current regulations to ensure compliance.

The discussion shifted to the new owner, Betty Louie, and her alleged ties to Luke's Lounge, a previous establishment that faced significant scrutiny and lost its liquor license due to numerous violations. Members expressed concern over Louie's LinkedIn profile, which indicated she had managed Luke's Lounge until August 2023, contradicting her claims of having no connection to the troubled venue.

Joanne Rubino, co-chair of the committee, emphasized the importance of understanding Louie's background, noting that the previous establishment's issues could reflect poorly on the new venture. The committee agreed that further investigation into Louie's history and her explanation for the discrepancies was necessary before moving forward with the application.

As the meeting concluded, members underscored the need for transparency and adherence to regulations to foster a safe and compliant business environment in the Bronx. The committee plans to follow up on these discussions and ensure all necessary documentation is in order before granting any approvals.