Cheaper liquor licenses possible for more South Bend businesses

 

SOUTH BEND, Ind. -- Access to booze could mean big business in South Bend.

“Entertainment venues that are providing a cultural element to their establishment can access three-way liquor licenses at a much cheaper rate than they could otherwise,” says Eric Glavich, Director of Growth and Opportunity for the City of South Bend.

That’s if the South Bend Common Council agrees to expand the city’s riverfront district from 1,500 feet to 3,000 feet, covering new areas both east and west of the Saint Joseph River including parts of Portage Avenue and Mishawaka Avenue.

“Mishawaka Avenue would be pulled within this development area, and venues on Mishawaka Avenue would benefit because they now have access to three-way liquor licenses,” Glavich explains.

Not only does it help current businesses cut down on costs by paying only roughly $2,000 annually for the three-way liquor licenses, but it would help incoming businesses save on start-up costs which the city estimates is up to $58,000 or more. The city says it would help to spur more development.

“They’re very excited, and we’re excited to work with them and get this done,” says Glavich.

There will be public comment and a council discussion on the bills in their next meeting on September 11^th.