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After debate, Wixom council backs liquor‑license transfer for downtown restaurant
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Summary
Council voted to support the transfer of an existing Class C and SDM liquor license to NCM Wixom LLC for a new downtown restaurant, authorizing associated permits after extended discussion over whether the buyer must agree to keep the license in Wixom.
WIXOM, Mich. — The Wixom City Council on April 14 approved a resolution supporting the transfer of an existing Class C on‑premise liquor license and an SDM off‑premise retail license to NCM Wixom LLC, the group that plans to reopen the site as Piazza Bar and Grill.
City staff told council the application had been reviewed by police and building officials and that there were no objections to the transfer. Administration recommended approval without imposing a post‑sale agreement to prevent the license from being transferred out of Wixom because the license was originally issued without that restriction.
Council members debated whether the city should require the buyer to sign an agreement promising to keep the license in Wixom. Council member Behrman said he was “comfortable with approving the transfer subject to you signing the restriction that you’re not going to take the license outside the city,” arguing the restriction protects downtown redevelopment. The applicant, Nevan Nannoushi, said his “intention is not to leave” and described a long‑term lease and investments to reopen the restaurant, but he said adding the restriction now would materially change the value of the license he purchased and could force him to renegotiate or unwind the deal.
Staff and several council members warned that denying or conditioning a transfer could backfire: if the transfer is not approved, the seller can still market or sell the license elsewhere in Oakland County and the city could lose the license without any recourse. Assistant city staff explained that quota and transfer rules are set by the Michigan Liquor Control Commission and that local recommendations are advisory to the state commission.
After public and council discussion, the council approved the resolution of support for the transfer and authorized updates to the city’s social district map and the issuance of the associated permits including Sunday AM/PM sales permits, an additional bar permit, an outdoor service area permit and a specific‑purpose food permit for the site. The motion carried by voice vote.
Applicant Nevan Nannoushi said he plans to open a dining room and maintain the downtown location, and the council wished him success as the business readies a soft opening.
