07.a Staff Report-The Ozark Tavern liquor licensePage 1 of 2
Staff Report
Date of Meeting: January 16, 2024
To: City Council
From: Brenda Eklund, City Clerk
Re: Application for New On-Sale/Sunday On-Sale Intoxicating Liquor License
Background:
On December 29, 2023, an application for a new On-Sale/Sunday On-Sale Intoxicating Liquor License
was received in the Clerk’s office. John Stahnke, Jr. is purchasing the business located at 21050 Ozark
Avenue, currently operating as The Grillium. The new owner proposes to operate The Ozark Tavern as a
bar and restaurant with an opening date of February 1, 2024.
In accordance with City of Scandia Code of Ordinances, Chapter 110.25, Hearing and Issuance for new
liquor license applications, the Council shall investigate all facts set out in the application and not
investigated in the preliminary or comprehensive background and financial investigations. Opportunity
shall be given to any person to be heard for or against the granting of the license. After the investigation
and hearing, the Council shall, in its sound discretion, grant or deny the application. No license shall
become effective until the proof of financial security has been approved by the Commissioner of Public
Safety.
Issue:
Should the City approve a new On-Sale/Sunday On-Sale Intoxicating Liquor License to John Stahnke, Jr
to operate The Ozark Tavern?
Proposal:
A copy of the application is included with this report. The applicant does not hold a liquor license with
any other establishment.
The Washington County Sheriff’s Office conducted the required criminal and financial background
investigation of the business owner and found nothing that would disqualify the applicant from obtaining
or holding a new Minnesota liquor license should the City approve one.
The required Certificate of Liquor Liability naming the City of Scandia as the certificate holder has been
submitted by the applicant, to accompany their liquor license application being sent to the State. All other
application requirements have been met, and the application appears to be in conformance with the
requirements of the City’s Code of Ordinances, Chapter 110: Alcohol.
Page 2 of 2
Options: Upon conclusion of the public hearing and Council deliberation, the Council may:
1) Approve a new On-Sale/Sunday On-Sale Intoxicating Liquor License to John Stahnke, Jr to
operate The Ozark Tavern at 21050 Ozark Avenue.
2) Deny a new On-Sale/Sunday On-Sale Intoxicating Liquor License to John Stahnke, Jr to operate
The Ozark Tavern, with findings.
3) Table a decision for more information.
Recommendation:
Option 1.