Commission approves downtown redevelopment liquor license for Saint Joe Wine Shop

The City of Benton Harbor Commission on Tuesday approved a downtown development district liquor license for the Saint Joe Wine Shop, a proposed wine bar and social club in the city’s Arts District.

Applicant Meredith George told the commission the project will rehabilitate a long-abandoned building on Park Street and over $450,000 in private funding would go into the redevelopment. “I’m here to ask for your support, for voting yes on our downtown redevelopment liquor license so we can bring this vision to life,” George said.

Debate on the floor focused on two lines of concern: whether the city already has too many alcohol-serving businesses downtown and whether the developer or landlord relationships created a conflict of interest. Commissioner Clark Griffin and others asked staff and the applicant to clarify ownership and investment relationships; Commissioner Griffin questioned whether Clement Construction (also referenced by speakers) had a role as landlord. The city manager said he did not believe Clement Construction was “involved directly” in the business and noted that permits and inspections would be required for structural, mechanical and exterior work.

Mayor Pro Tem Burton Seats and other commissioners emphasized the potential economic benefits: job creation, new tax revenue and downtown revitalization. Several commissioners noted that the property had been vacant for decades and argued redevelopment fit the city’s downtown plans. Commissioner Ron Singleton and Mayor Mohammed said the applicant is a city resident and called that a positive factor in assessing the proposal.

Following discussion, Commissioner Edward Isom moved to approve the license; Commissioner Ron Singleton seconded. The motion carried on a recorded vote with the majority in favor and Commissioner Kennard recorded as opposed.

City staff and the mayor noted that building rehabilitation will require standard permits and inspections before any work begins. The city manager reminded the commission that the downtown development authority and social-district tools exist to encourage investment. No special tax abatement or brownfield incentive was approved as part of the liquor-license vote. Staff listed follow-up tasks including verifying investment claims, confirming permit applications and disclosing any landlord-developer conflicts.

The city’s approval allows the applicant to pursue the necessary permits and inspections. Commissioners who opposed the license said they remain concerned about alcohol concentration and potential negative community effects; supporters said the project will increase downtown activity and expand entertainment choices.