Neighbors and community groups back Hook Fish & Chicken despite police incidents; committee approves with warning

The Licenses Committee approved Hook Fish & Chicken's food-dealer license renewal and issued a warning letter while making a provisional license available, after a lengthy hearing that included a detailed police report and multiple neighbors speaking in favor of the business.

Sgt. Guadalupe Velasquez summarized several calls for service at the location, including a weapon-related call on 10/04/2024 and other disturbance and property-damage incidents. Owner Rafael Mazur responded that several of the incidents were not at the property or involved non-employees, and he said the business cooperated with police and had updated its camera system. "It's just like sometimes we do have a customer comes over there and they don't like what they... we try to call the police sometimes," Mazur said in response to items in the report.

Multiple community speakers urged the committee to approve the license. Will Perry of the Milwaukee Islamic Dallas Center said the owners have been "a strong supporter of our community" and noted hires of people coming out of incarceration and the restaurant's support for the center. "They're a vital community member and a strong support of our community as well," Perry said. Teachers, employees, and nearby residents also testified in support, recounting positive experiences and long-term ties.

Alderman Andrea Pratt moved approval with a warning letter and signaled willingness to coordinate closely with the applicant's district office. The committee ordered approval with the warning and provisional arrangements; the licensing manager noted staff would assist as needed to ensure compliance and that the applicant post and maintain current license documentation.