Marshfield committee grants Class B license to Grama Dog after public support; Mushu’s application heard

The Marshfield Judiciary and Licensing Committee voted Jan. 6 to grant a Class B combination alcohol license to Grama Dog LLC following public comment and a closed-session review.

Joshua (who identified himself as owner of the Grama Dog, president of the Tavern League and a city board member) told the committee that liquor sales are essential to his business model and described this license as "the golden ticket" he needs to keep the business running and expand. Supporters who spoke during the citizens' comment period — including Karen Miller, Aaron Rome and employees and partners — told the committee that the business donates to community events and brings visitors to Marshfield.

The committee chair moved the meeting into closed session citing the committee’s ability under the Wisconsin open-meetings statute to consider certain personnel and individual matters; after the closed session the committee returned to open session and Miss Spiroz moved to grant the Class B combination license to Grama Dog LLC. The motion was seconded by Mister Barso and carried on a voice vote; the committee announced the motion "carried." The transcript records affirmative "Aye" responses but does not record a roll-call tally by name.

Also on the agenda, applicants representing NC Avenue LLC (identified in the hearing as Kadisha/ Kadisha Chaffee and Valeria Melendez) presented plans for a restaurant they called "Mushu's." They said the project represents an investment of "over $1,000,000," would employ about 16–20 people (12 full-time), and would be family oriented with private-dining options and fundraising support for local schools. The applicants described menu items and beverages that would require a liquor license. The committee heard their presentation but took no recorded action on that application during the meeting.

Committee members asked the Grama Dog applicant to clarify social-media posts and business operations. Joshua confirmed axe throwing will remain part of the venue and said he plans to add pool tables and other activities; he provided current hours and proposed expanded hours if and when the license and an interior expansion are in place.

Votes at a glance: the committee approved the December minutes and accepted the consent agenda earlier in the meeting (voice votes called by the chair). The committee then voted — after closed-session review — to grant a Class B combination license to Grama Dog LLC; the Mushu's/NC Avenue LLC application was heard but no final vote on that application is recorded in the public transcript.

The meeting concluded with a brief call for future agenda items and adjournment.