Council approves retail wine and malt license for Roswell 5345 LLC after staff confirms no active violations

The Sandy Springs City Council on May 6, 2025, approved an alcoholic beverage license for Roswell 53 45 LLC (DBA Mobile Mart) at 5345 Roswell Road for retail package wine and malt beverages after a period of discussion over alleged code compliance concerns.

Revenue staff reported the applicant "has met all requirements and staff recommends approval." Councilmember Tibby DeGiulio moved to defer the item 30 days to allow the applicant to correct an alleged beautification violation; Councilmember John Paulson seconded the motion. During discussion city attorney Mister Lee told council, "there isn't there's nothing to indicate that it is out of compliance at this time." Staff said earlier citations related to the property had been resolved in court and that, as of the staff review that evening, no active notice of violation existed.

Mister Lee and other staff noted the applicant had a temporary license and had obtained city permits to renovate the store interior. Council members expressed differing views: some supported deferral to confirm compliance records, while others cautioned against punitive action absent an active violation and noted the applicant’s ongoing investment in the property.

After further discussion the original motion to defer was withdrawn and Councilmember John Paulson moved to approve the license; Councilmember DeGiulio seconded. The council approved the application on a voice vote; staff will continue routine code enforcement as appropriate.

Ending: Council urged staff to improve interdepartmental reporting to ensure clearer, timely information on compliance status for future licensing items.