Council adds hours limit to Kemosabe retail bar; motion passes 5–1

The City Council reconsidered a previously approved conditional use permit (WCUP 25‑05) to add a condition limiting hours of operation for the bar inside the existing Kemosabe retail store at 20 Spokane Avenue. After discussion, councilors approved an amendment to the CUP limiting hours of operation so that the bar may operate no later than 10 p.m.; the motion carried 5–1 with one councilor voting in opposition.

Dana (staff) said the applicant requested that hours be permitted until 10 p.m. without amplified outdoor sound after the city's noise limits. At the September meeting councilor Sweeney had moved to reconsider WCUP 25‑05 to consider adding an hours condition. On October 6 Councilor Frank moved to add an amendment limiting hours “from 10 a.m. in the morning to no later than 10 p.m.” A clarification arose because the applicant’s letter cited 11 a.m. as the desired opening; councilors discussed that discrepancy during the motion. The motion was seconded and, after further comment, carried on a 5–1 vote with Councilor Quinnell recorded as voting in opposition.

Councilor Steve said he remained opposed to serving liquor directly across the street from the school but acknowledged the hours restriction was an improvement over the existing permit. Staff recommended reconsideration solely for the purpose of adding the hours condition; council approved the added condition with the stated evening cutoff.

The applicant’s letter and staff report remain part of the record; staff recommended continued compliance with all applicable ordinances and noise regulations as a condition of the CUP.