An independently owned convenience store proposed to sell packaged liquor at 10963 Saint Charles Rock Road, prompting council questions about proximity to Holman Middle School and the area’s existing liquor outlets; the council tabled the ordinance.
Planning and zoning officer Zach Greitens told the council the applicant seeks a special‑use permit to allow "liquor sales, packaged goods only" at a roughly 3,500-square-foot retail space in a planned commercial district. Greitens said the Planning Commission recommended approval with conditions by a 10–0 vote.
Staff recommended limiting packaged‑liquor storage and display to a maximum of 600 square feet to keep the primary use a general retail bodega rather than a stand‑alone liquor store, and to require the operator to obtain city and state liquor licenses and monitor adjacent areas to discourage loitering.
Applicant LaRhonda Stewart said Brantley’s Bodega would be "an independently owned convenience store" that is "not a liquor store. We would sell liquor, but it is not a liquor store," and she described a focus on neighborhood convenience items and job creation.
Council questions centered on public-safety and compatibility: Council Member Luther noted several nearby stores that already sell packaged liquor and asked why this site should be permitted as an additional seller. Council Member Sattel asked about the city code’s minimum distance; Greitens said municipal code requires 100 feet and that he measured about 120 feet from the proposed store corner to Holman Middle School’s addition, which exceeds that minimum and is part of the liquor license review process.
Police Chief Mark Massotti explained that loitering enforcement is typically handled at the property owner’s request; the city may pursue revocation of a special‑use permit if conditions are violated, and there are separate public‑drinking ordinances the department can enforce.
Formal action: The council moved to table Bill No. 6,501 (first reading of an ordinance to permit packaged liquor sales at 10963 Saint Charles Rock Road). Councilmember Luther moved and Councilmember Luke seconded; the motion passed on a voice vote with no opposition.
Background: The Planning Commission recommended approval with conditions (10–0). Staff exhibits, the Planning Commission report and applicant materials were entered into the record. Because the council tabled the item, the city has not authorized liquor sales at the site.