Committee backs renewal of Local 218 liquor license while noting owner's 2024 felony conviction

The Brainerd City Safety & Public Works Committee voted to recommend approval of a renewal for the Local 218 class‑2 restaurant liquor license for 10buck Investors, despite staff noting the applicant, Patrick Severson, was convicted of a felony in December 2024.

Chief Davis told the committee that under state statute a felony conviction would prevent issuance of a new alcohol license but that renewals are discretionary for the city: "If this was a new alcohol license, we would not be able to issue that new license. However, in the case of a renewal, it is optional," he said. Staff also noted that if the city approves the renewal, the state will then issue its corresponding license.

Committee members asked practical questions about the license term, rescission and local license limits. Chief Davis said the license term is one year and that the local code provides denial grounds but does not clearly specify a revocation procedure following issuance. Staff reported no calls or enforcement issues tied to the business while the license has been in effect.

A committee member said they appreciated the applicant's letter to the council and attendance at the meeting, adding, "I am highly in favor of supporting his request." The committee made a motion to recommend approval; the voice vote carried. The renewal will be considered by the full Brainerd City Council at its next meeting.

The committee did not record a roll‑call vote or name a mover/second in the transcript; the action was a recorded voice vote and the committee forwarded the item to the council.