Board allows tobacco shop at 4715 University Ave. to sell beer and wine (up to 25% of sales)

The Board of Adjustment on Oct. 23 approved a conditional use allowing a tobacco store at 4715 University Avenue to sell beer and wine in an amount not to exceed 25% of gross sales.

Staff told the board the site is zoned MX2 and that the applicant satisfied typical separation distances and neighborhood-notification requirements; four people attended the neighborhood meeting and four comment cards were received, all in support. “We believe that it has met the appropriate … separation distances needed,” staff said, and noted the applicant agreed to the proposed conditions.

Owners Webster and Claire Cranto described the enterprise as a mixed retail shop that began as clothing and art sales, and said the addition of craft beer and wine would be a small, off-premise offering to complement locally made products. “It is all for off premise consumption… No liquor, just curated craft beer and wine,” they said.

A nearby resident, Bridal Lutz, opposed the request citing the family-friendly character of the neighborhood, proximate alcohol sellers and chronic parking congestion on adjacent residential streets. Staff and the board clarified that the zoning separation rules do not require distance from an existing tavern across the street but do require certain distances from schools, parks and places of worship; staff also explained that zoning enforcement may audit businesses on suspicion of exceeding the 25% cap and can require an independent audit.

Board members said hours and the limited ancillary nature of the proposed sales weighed in favor of approval. A motion to grant the conditional use with staff conditions was adopted (recorded vote 6–0). Staff will follow up with the applicant on decision documentation and site-plan coordination.