Council tables liquor-license application for 2423 South Big Bend after packed public hearing

Maplewood — Residents filled the council chamber Tuesday night and urged elected officials to block a proposed liquor store at 2423 South Big Bend, citing safety, traffic and neighborhood impacts, and the City Council voted to table the license application.

Neighbors described frequent foot traffic by children at nearby schools and a playground, and said past activity at the site (a 7-Eleven) had created noise, loitering and traffic close to the high school and junior high. "I think it's a terrible idea," said Lamira Martin, who said she lives across Big Bend; she added that children walk home by that location and that a new liquor store would "promote crime" and reduce property values. Mark Strebler and other nearby residents echoed concerns about traffic, proximity to a park and recurring loitering.

The applicant addressed the council and indicated readiness to withdraw in light of community opposition. "I totally respect the neighborhood," said the applicant (who identified himself in the hearing as Kunal Patel and also used the name Connor); he said his company operates multiple stores and that, "if they feel that way, I will take my application back." The council clarified that the hearing is a chance to receive public input on the license application, not a separate decision to change land use at the site.

After public comment, a council member made a motion to table the liquor-license application; the motion was seconded and approved by roll call, effectively removing the item from the council agenda unless a council member moves to bring it back or the applicant resubmits. The motion carries no immediate permitting authorization for a store at the site.

Why it matters: The property sits near a high school, a junior high and a park, locations residents said are sensitive to changes in alcohol retailing. Those concerns included pedestrian safety at an already-challenging intersection, increased nighttime activity, and the potential effect on neighborhood character and property values. The applicant’s stated willingness to withdraw means the council did not have to take a substantive licensing vote.

Next steps: The application will remain tabled. If the applicant formally withdraws, no further action will be necessary; if the applicant resubmits or a council member moves to take the item off the table, the council could reconsider the license at a future meeting.

Quotes used in this article are drawn from public comment and applicant remarks at the June 11 council meeting.