07.a The Ozark Tavern Liquor License HearingPage 1 of 2
Staff Report
Date of Meeting: December 16, 2025
To: City Council
From: Brenda Eklund, City Clerk
Re: Application for New On-Sale/Sunday On-Sale Intoxicating Liquor License
Background:
On October 25, 2025, an application for a new On-Sale/Sunday On-Sale Intoxicating Liquor License was
received in the Clerk’s office. Melissa Bloom Bitker is purchasing the business located at 21050 Ozark
Avenue, currently operating as The Ozark Tavern. The new owner proposes to operate The Ozark Tavern
and Grill as a bar and restaurant with an opening date of January 1, 2026.
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 Combination On-Sale/Sunday On-Sale Intoxicating Liquor License to
Melissa Bloom Bitker to operate The Ozark Tavern and Grill?
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 Combination On-Sale/Sunday On-Sale Intoxicating Liquor License to Melissa
Bloom Bitker to operate The Ozark Tavern and Grill at 21050 Ozark Court.
2) Deny a new Combination On-Sale/Sunday On-Sale Intoxicating Liquor License to Melissa Bloom
Bitker to operate The Ozark Tavern and Grill, with findings.
3) Table a decision for more information.
Recommendation:
Option 1.