Germantown Beer Board Approves Permit for Wolf River Hospitality Group's Rio Lobo Cantina

Vice Mayor Mary Anne Gibson was absent from the Germantown Board of Mayor and Aldermen meeting on August 11, 2025, as she attended to a family health matter. The meeting commenced with the approval of minutes from the previous session, which passed without any modifications.

A significant topic of discussion was the approval of a beer sales permit application from Wolf River Hospitality Group for the Rio Lobo Cantina, located at 3165 Forest Hill Road. The restaurant is situated in a C-1 Zoning District, where on-premise beer consumption is permitted, pending approval from the beer board. Clerk Betty confirmed that background checks on the applicants revealed no disqualifying issues.

A public hearing was held to allow community input on the permit application, but no citizens came forward to speak either in favor or against it. Following the hearing, Alderman Sanders motioned to approve the permit, with Alderman Yulicki seconding the motion. Alderman Tony Salvaggio recused himself from the vote due to a contractual relationship with the applicant.

During the discussion, Todd Peterson, the director of operations for Wolf River Hospitality Group, addressed the board. He assured members that staff would undergo the necessary training for responsible alcohol service, including a five-hour ABC course and ongoing electronic training. Peterson also confirmed that they would apply for a state liquor permit once they received their certificate of occupancy.

The board unanimously approved the beer sales permit, marking a positive step for the new restaurant. The meeting concluded with the board returning to regular session after the beer board adjourned.