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Council takes no position, clears liquor license application for North 27th Avenue
Summary
The Phoenix City Council heard from applicant Ishmael Abushanab and voted to take no recommendation on a Series 10 liquor license for 8617 N. 27th Avenue, advancing the matter with a unanimous vote. Abushanab said the location has a longstanding valid liquor license and community agreements to address safety.
The Phoenix City Council on Feb. 18 voted to take no recommendation on an application for a Series 10 liquor license at 8617 North 27th Avenue, allowing the state process to proceed.
Applicant Ishmael Abushanab told the council the building previously operated under a Series 9 license since 1983 and that the property has already required more than $500,000 in repairs after vandalism. "Keeping the building vacant will not do any good to the community or to the city," Abushanab said, adding he executed a neighborhood agreement and met with police and local block‑watch leaders to address safety concerns.
Councilman O'Brien moved for a "no recommendation" finding; the motion was seconded and, after a roll call, passed unanimously 9–0. Council members did not block the item or impose local conditions during the hearing.
Why it matters: A "no recommendation" vote from the council typically means the city is not opposing the state licensing authority’s review; the applicant can pursue activation of a Series 10 license under Arizona law if state criteria are met.
What happens next: The state licensing authority will complete its review for the Series 10 license and any additional conditions or protests would be processed there. Abushanab said he will continue to work with neighbors and law enforcement to manage safety and operations.
— Reporting by Phoenix City Council proceedings; city clerk roll call confirmed the 9–0 outcome.
