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Council reduces suspension for Red, White & Blue tavern after owner vows corrective steps
Summary
After owner Jake Daney testified that he has purchased ID‑scanning equipment and trained staff, the Common Council amended the license committee’s recommended 20‑day suspension of Red, White & Blue to a 10‑day suspension and approved the committee report by roll call.
The Common Council voted to adopt the Licenses Committee’s recommendations for several license matters, including a modified penalty for Red, White & Blue (RWB), a tavern at 1044 N. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Drive. The committee initially recommended a 20‑day suspension based on a police report and applicant testimony finding the operation posed a public‑safety risk.
Owner Jake Daney addressed the council and described 25 years of business on MLK Drive, engagement with neighborhood associations, and corrective steps taken after recent incidents. Daney told the council: "I respectfully ask the common council to issue a warning letter instead of a 20 day suspension. I've already demonstrated corrective action...My entire security team will continue to participate in these meetings with the police to go over best practices." He described buying a high‑quality ID scanner and working with police to improve crowd control and security practices.
Alderman Bauman moved to amend the committee recommendation, reducing the suspension from 20 days to 10 days; there was no objection and the motion was ordered. The clerk called the roll on adoption of the committee’s recommendations; the amended action passed with 15 ayes.
Why it matters: The council’s action balances enforcement of licensing standards with consideration of business impacts on employees and patron safety during a busy season. The record shows the owner committed to concrete corrective measures and the council elected a reduced penalty.
What’s next: The license committee’s findings and the amended suspension will be reflected in the city’s licensing record; the owner said he will continue to collaborate with police and security staff on compliance.
