Kelowna council did not support an application that would see the Liquid Zoo open later with an increased capacity.
During the Tuesday public hearing, council voted unanimously to support the staff recommendation of non support.
In mid-February, the owners of the club on Lawrence Avenue submitted an application to make changes to their existing liquor license.
The application was requesting that the closing time be extended to 3 am and the capacity be increased from 500 people to 655.
David Habib, owner of the club, said increasing the capacity to 655 would allow him to utilize the entire building when events are held.
Habib also said the increase in capacity would also be beneficial to his business during the busy tourism season.
However, staff were not supportive of the application due to concerns about the pressure it would put on the RCMP, an increase in noise, an increase in excessive drinking and the potential impact on future mixed use developments in the area..
In addition, staff said the increase in capacity does not follow the city’s Liquor Licensing Policy and Procedures, which says establishments with capacities over 249 should not be within 250 metres from other businesses of that size.
Gotham Nite Club, and Bernie’s Supper Club are less than 200 metres away and have capacities over 300 people.
Despite support from the owners of Social 242, which is just down the street, and several employees, the application to make changes to the Liquid Zoo’s liquor license was not supported by council.
Coun. Luke Stack pointed to the work and thought put into the rules that are in place for establishments, which include capacities not exceeding 500 people and closing at 2 am while trying to “revitalize” residential living opportunities in the area.
Coun. Loyal Wooldridge applauded Habib’s efforts in keeping his establishment safe and being a good neighbor, however, he raised concern about the impact on Kelowna’s RCMP fleet.
Coun. Mohini Singh said Habib would still be able to apply for temporary liquor license amendments that would increase capacity for six “special events” during the summer and on long weekends.
These types of applications are formally approved by the Provincial Liquor and Cannabis Regulation Branch and require support from local governments, however, it will not be moving forward.
Mayor Tom Dyas said it would be a good idea for council to consider reviewing the liquor license policies due to the city’s growth.
