Title
Liquor License - Mero Mart - District 1
Description
Request for a liquor license. Arizona State License Application 314116.
License Information
Summary
Applicant
Bikram Bhandari, Agent
License Type
Series 10 - Beer and Wine Store
Location
8925 N. 43rd Avenue, Unit 1 and 2
Zoning Classification: C-1
Council District: 1
This request is for a new liquor license for a convenience store that does not sell gas. This location was previously licensed for liquor sales and may currently operate with an interim permit. This location requires a Use Permit to allow package liquor sales.
The 60-day limit for processing this application was January 11, 2025. However, the applicant submitted a written request for more time.
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 applicant does not hold an interest in any other active liquor license 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:
"I am committed to being a positive member of the community and adhering to the local and federal regulation. I am financial stable to demonstrate the ability to operate a license establishment."
The public convenience requires and the best interest of the community will be substantially served by the issuance of the liquor license because:
“This establishment will provide a safe convenient and regulated location fro the community to purchase alcoholic beverages. Our goal is to offer a diverse selection of quality products at competitive prices while adhering to strict compliance with state and local regulation."
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 - Mero Mart - Data
Attachment - Mero Mart - Map
Department
Responsible Department
This item is submitted by Deputy City Manager Ginger Spencer and the City Clerk Department.