Rotunda Cafe license approved; fire and building inspections may affect final issuance

The Alcohol License Review Committee approved a new license for Rotunda Cafe at 1965 Atwood Ave. on March 19, but the applicant was advised that building and fire-inspection follow-up could affect the timeline for issuing the license.

Why it matters: The applicant and building owner must resolve a potential code issue—whether the building requires a sprinkler system for the occupancy level—before the City can finalize the license. Fire and building departments review occupancy and sprinkler requirements; unresolved code items can delay license issuance.

What happened at the meeting Applicant Robert Cruz described plans to expand Rotunda Cafe’s offerings and occasional live events. Staff noted ongoing coordination with the fire inspector, Amanda Hornin, and building-inspection staff (Carrie Olson). The fire inspector had indicated there may be a requirement to sprinkle the building depending on the final assessed occupancy; staff and the building owner agreed to meet the inspector and the building department to clarify the correct occupancy and next steps.

Staff guidance and next steps Committee members and city staff told the applicant that if the building is required to be sprinkled the license cannot be issued until that work is complete or an acceptable alternative is documented. The building owner and applicant were advised to coordinate directly with the fire and building-inspection staff; the clerk’s office confirmed the committee’s approval would stand while technical code compliance is resolved.

Ending The ALRC approved the license at the meeting; the applicant and building owner will work with Amanda Hornin (fire) and the building inspector to determine whether sprinklers or other remediation are required before final license issuance.