Watertown council approves transfer of Freedom tavern liquor and video lottery licenses

The Watertown City Council approved the transfer of retail malt beverage, South Dakota farm wine and video lottery licenses for the Freedom tavern at West Kemp from Kareem Incorporated, doing business as Freedom at West Kemp, to 7 27 Incorporated, doing business as Freedom Watertown, at a special meeting March 27, 2025.

The transfer, described by Interim City Manager Bob Zine as an ownership change at the same location, drew no public comment during a brief public hearing and was approved by voice vote. Councilman Bueller moved the motion and Councilman Peters seconded; the chair said the motion carried.

Zine told the council that all required fees had been paid and that notice of the transfer had been provided. He characterized the item as an ownership transfer only and said the license would remain at the same address listed in the application. The council opened a public hearing and, after receiving no comments, moved directly to a council motion to approve the transfer.

The transfer was handled as a single agenda item at a short special meeting that also included routine agenda approval and adjournment votes. No conditions, amendments or additional licensing requirements were recorded in the council discussion.

Votes at a glance: the council approved the meeting agenda (motion by Councilman Tupper, seconded by Councilman Shutti); approved the license ownership transfer (motion by Councilman Bueller, seconded by Councilman Peters); and approved adjournment (motion by Councilman Tupper, seconded by Councilman Shutti). All three motions were decided by voice vote and were recorded by the chair as carrying.