Board recommends transferring beer-and-wine license to Wild Coffee Cafe at 309 Central

The Whitefish Community Development Board on Oct. 16 recommended City Council approval of WCUP25-09, a conditional use permit to transfer a beer-and-wine license to Wild Coffee Cafe at 309 Central Avenue.

Planner Lauren presented the application on behalf of the City and said no changes to the site or building are proposed. The license previously authorized at a separate location would be transferred to Wild Coffee as a new use, which requires a CUP. “The proposed use of the beer and wine license will be accessory to the cafe component of the business,” Lauren said. Staff found the proposed use consistent with the W B 3 business district, public-service availability and the city’s growth policy and recommended approval with the conditions listed in the staff report.

Board member John suggested a minor edit to the staff report to explicitly note that the W B 3 district can include bars and lounges; Lauren agreed an edit could be made. Applicant Sam Downhauer, who identified himself and his address, said he had nothing further to add to staff’s presentation and described the planned service as limited — occasional mimosas or a lunch beer — and confirmed alcohol would be served at the same counter as coffee and food and within similar hours to the café's current schedule.

Toby moved to recommend approval of WCUP25-09 with the four staff conditions; the motion was seconded and passed unanimously. No public opposition was recorded during the hearing. The recommendation will go to City Council for final approval.