Akron Committee Opposes Liquor Permit Renewal for 8 1 8 LLC After Violence Reports

During the recent City of Akron Council Committee meeting held on July 28, 2025, a significant resolution was introduced opposing the renewal application for a liquor permit by 818 LLC, located at 1800 Merriman Road. This resolution, which declares an emergency, comes in response to a troubling increase in police calls associated with the establishment since its rebranding and reopening in April.

Chief Prosecutor Craig Morgan highlighted that the property has experienced approximately 50 calls for service over the past year, a notably high number for a liquor permit premises. Alarmingly, nearly one-third of these calls occurred after the establishment reopened under new management. The nature of these incidents has raised serious concerns, with reports of violent altercations, parking complaints, and even a homicide linked to the venue.

The committee discussed the implications of these incidents, particularly the severity of the calls since the new management took over. Morgan noted that while the new owners have no prior experience operating in Akron, the existing liquor permit remains under the previous owner's name, complicating the situation. The committee is aware that a transfer application could be submitted before the scheduled hearing, which would further influence the division of liquor control's decision-making process.

In light of these developments, the committee is taking proactive measures to address the safety concerns surrounding the establishment. Efforts to engage with the current and new owners to implement strategies for mitigating these issues have been attempted, though the outcome remains uncertain.

As the council prepares for the upcoming hearing, the resolution's passage signifies a critical step in addressing community safety and the management of liquor establishments in Akron. The outcome of this situation will likely have lasting implications for local governance and public safety initiatives in the area.