Willoughby Hills City Council removed a controversial resolution objecting to a liquor license renewal from their special meeting agenda Aug. 14 after two residents voiced concerns about the process during public comment.
The resolution, which would have opposed the renewal of a liquor license for a woman-owned business operating in the city for over 40 years, was initially listed on the meeting agenda but removed before formal consideration.
Jen Barrow, who resides on Somp Center, criticized the council for what she called an attempt to “ambush a respected business owner without giving them or the public fair notice.” She questioned why the resolution was introduced without transparent discussion and expressed concern about targeting a business facing personal hardships.
“This process feels like less good governance and more like an attempt to ambush a respected business owner,” Barrow said. “Our community values fairness, due process, and supporting local businesses, especially those that have proven themselves for decades.”
A resident of Beach Hills Drive echoed similar concerns, saying the action gave her pause about the council’s commitment to supporting local businesses. She noted the establishment is “a successful business” and “a great place” that the community wants to keep.
Council Clerk Laura O’Donnell acknowledged the resolution’s inclusion was an error, stating she thought she had removed all copies from the agenda but missed one.
Mayor Christopher Hallum responded by confirming he had instructed the city attorney to reach out to the business owners to schedule a meeting to work through compliance issues. He emphasized the city wants to help the business resolve any violations rather than harm it.
“We do care about our businesses,” Hallum said. “That’s why I reached out to them right away and set up a meeting, which we already have scheduled to work all those things out.”
Councilwoman Julie Belich thanked the speakers and committed to helping businesses overcome violations rather than rushing them out of the community.
In other business, council adopted Ordinance 2025-037 on third reading, which will place proposed charter amendments on the ballot for voters to decide. The amendments relate to mandatory public votes on land use changes and effective dates of ordinances.
Councilman Jeremy Gavich, who attended virtually, said regardless of personal positions on the amendments, residents deserve the opportunity to vote on the changes.
Council Vice President Tanya Taylor Draper, who serves as Council President pro tem, encouraged residents to research the proposed changes and contact council members for more information.
Council also approved a motion authorizing the clerk to confirm no objection to a liquor permit application for Chapultepec Mexican Grill of Colorado LLC at a Chardon Road location.
Councilman Joe Jarmuszkiewicz reminded residents about the city’s music festival scheduled for Aug. 16 at the community center, featuring five bands and food trucks from 1-9 p.m. Councilwoman Vicki Miller noted volunteers are still needed for the event, particularly for parking assistance.
The meeting adjourned at 6:58 p.m.
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