The City of Kenosha's License & Permit Committee meeting on August 11, 2025, highlighted significant discussions surrounding the approval of operator licenses, particularly focusing on applicants with past legal issues.
One of the most notable cases involved an applicant whose bartender's license was under scrutiny due to a history of legal troubles. The committee expressed concerns about the applicant's recent incidents, noting they were just five points away from a critical threshold that could lead to denial of their license. Despite these concerns, the committee ultimately voted to recommend approval of the application, emphasizing that the applicant's current standing was not at the maximum point limit. "95 is not a 100," one committee member remarked, indicating a cautious but supportive stance.
Another applicant, Brandy Jones, faced a recommendation for deferral due to past felony charges related to forgery. The committee acknowledged her proactive approach in providing documentation and expressed appreciation for her transparency. However, her application was complicated by the points system used to assess eligibility, which could lead to a denial based on her past.
Veronica Scalia's application was also discussed, with the committee raising alarms over her pending legal matters, including multiple infractions for driving with a suspended license. The committee's consensus was that her history raised significant red flags regarding her ability to responsibly serve alcohol. "I can't give you that advice," one member stated, highlighting the committee's focus on public safety.
The meeting concluded with a recommendation to the city council, which will review these cases in their upcoming session. The outcomes of these discussions will play a crucial role in shaping the future of these applicants and the standards for issuing operator licenses in Kenosha.