Greeley court hears liquor license request amid occupancy certificate concerns for Murphy USA

The Greeley City Liquor License Authority convened on August 15, 2025, to discuss the approval of a liquor license for Murphy USA, a convenience store chain, which is set to open a new location in Greeley. The meeting highlighted the growing demand for liquor licenses in the area, with approval rates for similar licenses averaging around 85%, indicating a strong community interest.

During the meeting, representatives from Murphy USA detailed their commitment to responsible alcohol sales, emphasizing their training programs for staff to ensure compliance with state regulations. The district manager, Norman Behrends, explained that all employees undergo a comprehensive training program before handling alcohol sales, which includes both computer-based learning and hands-on training with store managers. Additionally, the company employs a third-party service to conduct regular checks on ID verification practices.

However, the discussion took a turn when it was revealed that the new Murphy USA location does not yet have a certificate of occupancy due to outstanding exterior work related to drainage and landscaping. City officials expressed concern about the store operating without this certification, which is crucial for ensuring safety and compliance with local regulations. The chief building official confirmed that while the interior of the store has passed safety inspections, the lack of a certificate of occupancy could delay the issuance of the liquor license.

The authority ultimately decided to hold off on granting the liquor license until the certificate of occupancy is secured. This decision underscores the city’s commitment to maintaining safety standards while also addressing the community's demand for convenient access to alcohol sales.

As Greeley continues to grow, the outcome of this meeting reflects the balancing act between fostering business development and ensuring public safety. The city will monitor the situation closely as Murphy USA works to complete the necessary exterior improvements.