Springfield license commission denies Antojosall-alcohol application after neighborhood and church objections

The Springfield License Commission voted to deny a continued petition from Antojos Springfield for an all-alcohol package and on-premise license after public testimony and neighborhood opposition on Aug. 27, 2025. The petition sought permission for Antojos, a dessert-and-juice bar at 263 Hancock Street, to serve mixed alcoholic beverages on the premises.

The commissiondecision followed more than an hour of testimony from members of the nearby community and representatives of churches that said the establishment would be too close to youth programs and worship activities. Pastor Gwen Haines of Abundant Life Worship and Praise Tabernacle said her congregation includes young people and that the church sits near the proposed site. Barbara Gresham, president of the Old Hill Neighborhood Council, and other residents including Monique Hornsby and Lorraine Crump urged denial, citing schools, apartments and churches within the surrounding blocks and broader concerns about saturation of alcohol-serving businesses in the neighborhood.

The city attorney reviewed applicable law for the commission before public comment, citing elements of the carryout…