Committee recommends changing residency requirement for alcohol-license agents to 25-mile radius from City Hall

The Waukesha Ordinance and Licensing Committee on Monday voted unanimously to recommend that the Common Council amend Municipal Code 9.09(1) so that residency for alcohol- and tobacco-license agents is defined as residing within 25 miles of City Hall rather than residing within Waukesha County.

Committee members discussed administration and fairness in enforcing residency requirements. The city attorney said it would be easier in practice to determine whether an address is inside Waukesha County using online GIS and tax systems, but committee members argued a 25-mile radius better captures workers who can reasonably respond to calls and reduces the incentive to designate an agent who is not truly involved in daily operations.

The police department told staff it is neutral on the proposed change but noted the importance of having someone able to respond promptly to incidents at licensed premises. The city attorney cautioned that if the council adopts a discretionary review for out‑of‑radius agents, the code should include standards to avoid arbitrary decisions and ensure fairness.

A motion to recommend amending 9.09(1) to change the residency requirement to a 25‑mile radius from City Hall was made by Alderperson Helvinslaven and seconded by Alderperson Anderson; the committee approved the recommendation unanimously. The recommendation will be forwarded to the Common Council for consideration.

Votes at a glance: Motion to recommend amendment to Municipal Code 9.09(1) changing residency requirement to 25 miles from City Hall — approved unanimously.

Committee members said the change aims to balance administrative practicality and equal treatment of applicants.