Austin Police Investigate Liquor Law Violations at Downtown Bars Amid Safety Concerns

Austin Police Department Investigates Potential Liquor Law Violations by Local Bars

The city of Austin is in the spotlight as the Austin Police Department (APD) has raised concerns over several downtown bars and nightclubs possibly breaking state liquor laws. These establishments may have been selling alcoholic drinks after legal hours, a practice that can lead to serious consequences.

Recent Study Raises Alarm

During a recent meeting of the Downtown Commission, findings from a June study undertaken by the Pecan Street Owners Association were revealed. This study indicated that several bars in the downtown area were not adhering to the set operating hours and may be engaging in certain activities that violate local or state laws. The primary focus of the APD’s presentation was on crime and public safety, particularly in the entertainment district along Sixth Street, running between Congress Avenue and Interstate 35.

The study, conducted over two weekends in March, specifically named several establishments including Mala Vida, Mala Fama, The Creek and The Cave, Lit Lounge, 512 Bar, The Cut, Space Siete, and Tellers. APD investigator Marcus Stokke highlighted, “We were able to infiltrate the after-hours unlicensed bars while carrying our pistols.”

Actions to Rectify Issues

In response to questions about the findings, APD Lieutenant Christopher Juusola explained that the department has been proactively engaging with business and property owners to help solve these infractions. According to him, these efforts are part of a broader approach known as “nuisance abatement.” This approach involves documenting a certain number of violations before any enforcement action, like closing a business or seizing property, is considered.

“We try to give the business managers and the building owners a chance to try to rectify the problems,” Juusola said. He added that the goal is to ensure that these establishments collaborate with the city and police to enhance safety in the community. The discussions involve multiple local authorities, including the Austin Fire Department and various state agencies.

Industry Reactions

The findings of the Pecan Street study have sparked significant controversy among bar and nightclub owners. Some have expressed concern that they are being unfairly targeted, particularly as they cater to a different clientele than what some property owners envision for the area. Restaurateur Shawn Cirkiel, who chairs the Pecan Street association, noted that the investigation was partly driven by complaints from nearby bar owners about competitors operating outside the law.

Cirkiel emphasized that such after-hours sales inflict stress on legally operating businesses that follow regulations and pay taxes. “Anytime that there’s sales of alcoholic beverages after-hours, it creates stress points because legal businesses that operate inside of TABC and the state comptroller have to pay taxes and follow other regulations,” he explained. This sentiment resonates with many licensed establishments that feel it is \b}unfair to have to compete with those who do not play by the same rules.

The Future of Sixth Street

The ongoing debate regarding the Sixth Street entertainment district’s future has caught the attention of both local businesses and policy makers. Dallas-based Stream Realty Partners, which has acquired numerous properties commonly occupied by late-night venues, is focusing on transforming the area. Their plan includes highlighting restaurants alongside a mix of residential, hotel, and office space, which represents a significant change from the traditional nightlife focus.

The discussions surrounding enforcement of liquor laws and the direction of the Sixth Street district are expected to continue as the APD gathers more information and works with local businesses. The consequences of these actions could impact not just the named bars, but the overall shape of Austin’s vibrant nightlife scene.