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After repeated violations, commission moves to administratively suspend Brixton's permit
Summary
The commission heard a staff enforcement report showing repeated late‑night entertainment violations at the Brixton (2140 Union St.). Staff said the venue has received multiple citations and announced plans to pursue an administrative suspension of up to 15 days; owners acknowledged noncompliance and described financial pressures.
Deputy director reported to commissioners that the Brixton (LLP EC1616) has generated 13 311 complaints since its LLP was issued, with 12 site visits and nine observed permit violations, primarily for operating entertainment after the 11 p.m. LLP cutoff. The department has issued one notice of violation and six citations; five citations were for operating after 11 p.m. Deputy director told the commission that the most recent citation made this the third citation within a 72‑day period, giving staff authority under Municipal Police Code Article 15.1 to initiate an administrative suspension of up to 15 days.
Representatives for the Brixton acknowledged the violations. Andy Wasserman, appearing for ownership, said, "As far as our permit goes, obviously we have been outside of compliance. I guess the biggest thing is there's really no excuse for it." He described revenue pressures and said the venue relied on later‑night entertainment to supplement business after the pandemic.
Commissioners pressed ownership on outreach to neighbors, honest communications with inspectors and steps to come into compliance. Several commissioners said there are feasible alternatives and pathways: apply for a conditional use permit (CU) with the planning department to allow a place of entertainment permit that could legally extend hours, pursue one‑time permits more consistently, implement sound‑mitigation measures, and strengthen front‑line manager training so staff understand permit conditions.
Deputy director confirmed staff's plan to proceed with a 15‑day administrative suspension and recommended monitoring the license thereafter; commissioners discussed revisiting the item if further violations occur and noted that more severe sanctions would follow additional noncompliance.
The commission did not amend the Brixton permit at the meeting. Several commissioners offered to speak with owner representatives off the record to suggest remediation steps and to encourage the owner to pursue regulatory avenues that would allow later hours legally.
The enforcement discussion underscores how recurring permit violations trigger escalating administrative remedies under local police code and how commissioners balance support for nightlife businesses with enforcement obligations to neighbors.
