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Police oppose new D‑4 liquor permit for 1519 West Avenue; committee declines to request hearing
Summary
Elyria police recommended the city object to a new D‑4 liquor permit at 1519 West Avenue, citing prior assaults and tax problems at the address and an applicant OVI; after questions and testimony from the applicant's statutory agent, the committee voted not to request a hearing from the liquor commission.
Elyria Police recommended the Community Development Committee object to a new D‑4 liquor permit application for 1519 West Avenue, the former Grenadiers Club, but the committee decided not to ask the state liquor commission for a hearing.
Chief James Wells told the committee his preliminary investigation identified several public‑safety concerns tied to the address and noted prior suspensions and tax issues connected with the prior operator. He also reported the applicant, Asa C. Knowles, has an OVI on his record and said multiple calls to the establishment’s address in recent months raised concern about approving a new permit.
Several council members questioned the seriousness and timing of the reported incidents. Mr. Armstrong, who said the club has been part of the neighborhood for decades, and Mrs. Mitchell, who cited the club's past community activities, both urged restraint. Asa C. Knowles, who said he is the statutory agent for Alalem Temple No. 223 and not the new owner, described the organization as philanthropic and said safeguards—member cards and member‑only sales—are in place. He also said the Liquor Control Board agent recently inspected the premises and that tax issues tied to the prior owners have been resolved.
After the discussion, Mrs. Mitchell moved that the committee not request a hearing from the Ohio Division of Liquor Control; the motion was seconded and carried. Committee minutes record a vote of 'Aye' with the motion carrying. The committee report notes the permit type (class D‑4) allows on‑premises service to members only until 1 a.m., and further zoning enforcement would apply if the club sold to the general public.
