Economic development committee moves no-objection on outside cafe and objects to liquor license application

Community Board 11’s Economic Development committee reviewed two licensing-related items and forwarded recommendations to the full board.

On an outdoor dining application at North Park Inn, the committee voted to recommend “no objection” and will present that recommendation to the full board. Committee members said Department of Transportation (DOT) requirements influenced the recommended response: if the DOT’s application form indicates no local conditions, the board’s feedback is informational only.

On Gustitro’s Latino Restaurant’s application for a new on-premises liquor license, the committee voted to send a letter of objection to the State Liquor Authority (SLA). Committee members cited: the applicant’s failure to supply a certificate of occupancy and an incomplete committee questionnaire, community complaints alleging on-premises alcohol service prior to licensing, and an apparent failure to meet SLA posting requirements intended to notify neighbors about an application. Chris (staff member) told the committee he had called the applicant twice and was told the certificate of occupancy was not available and the menu had not yet been finalized; community members also reported alleged noncompliance with posting rules.

Why it matters: SLA decisions and DOT permits affect neighborhood quality of life and public-safety oversight. The committee’s objection will be sent with stated grounds so SLA can consider the community input and any follow-up from the applicant.

Procedure and next steps: Staff will prepare the formal no-objection letter for the North Park Inn outdoor cafe and the objection letter for Gustitro’s and circulate drafts to committee members. Committee members noted the objection could change if the applicant supplies the missing documentation or otherwise remedies the issues before the SLA acts.

Action details and conditions are summarized below.