CB2 To Nip Liquor Licenses in the Bud (Light)

Park Slope’s Union Hall isn’t the only bar experiencing backlash from neighbors tired of overhearing peoples’ drunk conversations. Community Board 2 District Manager Robert Perris told us his board plans to stop issuing new liquor licenses in certain areas where residents feel over-saturated with noisy bars. As a compromise, the board would suggest either a beer and wine license or an early closing time. The two “over-saturation” examples Perris gave were Atlantic Avenue near Henry Street in Brooklyn Heights (Brazen Head, Floyd, Last Exit, Magnetic Field, Montero’s, Waterfront Ale House) and the intersection of Fulton Street and Lafayette Avenue in Fort Greene (Frank’s Lounge, Moe’s, Stonehome Wine Bar). Perris said the focus right now would be on suggesting beer and wine licenses as an alternative. “The relationship is clearer that the alcohol is part of the dining experience and not sort of the focus by itself.” And if the applicant is absent at hearings, or otherwise “appears to us that they are intentionally or unintentially unwilling to have a conversation with us,” the community board may recommend that the state not approve the liquor license request as standard protocol. The board is expected to vote on the official protocol change tonight. Editor’s Note: To clarify, the above are measures that have been discussed, but nothing has been decided on. The issue will be discussed at the board meeting tonight.
Community Board Moving to Nuke Union Hall [Brownstoner]
Photo by Bryan Bruchman.