Title
Liquor License - AJ's #159 - District 6
Description
Request for a liquor license. Arizona State License Application 360502.
License Information
Summary
Applicant
Ralph Woodward, Agent
License Type
Series 7 - Beer and Wine Bar
Location
4430 E. Camelback Road
Zoning Classification: C-1 ACSPD
Council District: 6
This request is for a location transfer of a liquor license for a beer and wine bar. This location is currently licensed for liquor sales with a Series 9 - Liquor Store, liquor license. A bar is not a permitted use by-right in a C-1 zoning district.
The 60-day limit for processing this application is November 24, 2025.
Pursuant to A.R.S. 4-203, a spirituous liquor license shall be issued only after satisfactory showing of the capability, qualifications and reliability of the applicant and that the public convenience and the best interest of the community will be substantially served by the issuance. If an application is filed for the issuance of a license for a location, that on the date the application is filed has a valid license of the same series issued at that location, there shall be a rebuttable presumption that the public convenience and best interest of the community at that location was established at the time the location was previously licensed. The presumption shall not apply once the licensed location has not been in use for more than 180 days.
Other Active Liquor License Interest in Arizona
This information is not provided due to the multiple ownership interests held by the applicant in the State of Arizona.
Public Opinion
No protest or support letters were received within the 20-day public comment period.
Applicant’s Statement
The applicant submitted the following statement in support of this application. Spelling, grammar and punctuation in the statement are shown exactly as written by the applicant on the City Questionnaire.
I have the capability, reliability and qualifications to hold a liquor license because:
“AJ's Fine Foods operates under well-defined policies and security measures that ensure full compliance with regulatory requirements. Our consistent record of responsible management reflects our qualifications to hold a liquor license. We take seriously our role as a trusted member of the community and are dedicated to conducting alcohol sales in a safe, lawful, and professional manner.”
The public convenience requires and the best interest of the community will be substantially served by the issuance of the liquor license because:
“We strive to grow and improve our business with continued focus on the needs of our customers. We remain committed to the betterment of our communities through service and support as well as the future of our environment through sustainability efforts. With more than 100 stores across the state, we are one of Arizona's largest employers and give back to the communities we serve.”
Staff Recommendation
Staff recommends approval of this application noting the applicant must resolve any pending City of Phoenix building and zoning requirements, and be in compliance with the City of Phoenix Code and Ordinances.
Attachments
Attachment A - AJ's #159 - Data
Attachment B - AJ's #159 - Map
Department
Responsible Department
This item is submitted by Deputy City Manager Alan Stephenson and the City Clerk Department.