Eastside Defender

Nov 21, 2007: An Administrative Law Judge has recommended, "that the Minneapolis City Council take appropriate action against the liquor license held by T.J. Management of Minneapolis d/b/a Gabby’s Saloon and Eatery."

Appropriate action cannot include license revocation. Gabby's operates in compliance with all liquor laws. The City's cause for revocation is found in an ordinance made inoperative due to conflict with State law (Minnesota law trumps lesser jurisdictions).

The City does have grounds to place restrictions or conditions on the license. Those conditions have not been established. In the past, proposed restrictions have included:

• an increased cover charge
• a reduced occupancy (400)
• the elimination of drink specials
• an earlier closing time (midnight)

Also of note, neighborhood opinion as heard by the Judge was 2-to-1 in favor Gabby's. 23 people signed a petition of support while only 12 filed Community Impact Statements.