Politics & Government

Liquor License Transfers on City Commission Agenda Tonight

Hotel/motel issues, Woodward tribute, development issues, events and more to be considered at the meeting is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. at City Hall.

Royal Oak City Commissioners will consider recommendations from the Liquor Control Committee (LLC) regarding plans for new downtown restaurant/bars when it meets at 7:30 p.m. today at .

Ballentine

Evolution Hospitality Group LLC is proposing to transfer the liquor license from the former Rumor's location on Main Street to open Ballentine restaurant at 409 S. Center St. – in the same building as , according to city documents.

The applicants describe Ballentine as an upscale steakhouse with a Frank Sinatra-style lounge seating 332 people total inside, with another 20 outside, according to a memo from Royal Oak Police Lt. Thomas Goad to the Liquor Control Committee.

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The LCC has concerns regarding the size of the facility, police staffing, and the ownership structure. Mayor Pro Tem Patricia Capello expressed her concerns about the location being dangerously close to three of the largest bars in the city: O’Tooles, Fifth Avenue and Woody’s.

Tom December, of the association, said he believes the presence of another bar/restaurant will only increase the need for police presence and disruptive behavior among downtown patrons.

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The LLC recommends denying the transfer of the liquor license for Ballentine. The vote was 2-1, with Commissioner Mike Fournier voting yes.

Hamlin’s Corner

Commissioners will also consider a proposal for Hamlin’s Corner, a sports-themed restaurant and part of the Hamlin Pubs chain. The proposed 6,700-square-foot restaurant/bar plans to serve pizza, soups, salads, burgers, sandwiches and fish and chips in the Main North Lofts building at 376-386 Main St.

The for a Class C License transfer from at 30295 Woodward.

The vote was 2-1, with Capello voting no.

Other agenda items

  • continuation of
  • license transfer for
  • Traffic Committee resolutions
  • memorandums regarding the proposed 30-foot public art piece
  • approval of tentative preliminary plat and development agreement for the former Whittier Elementary School site
  • Charter Vehicle Task Force discussion
  • Crime Prevention Council Safe Neighborhoods Initiative update
  • events at the


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