LANSING, MI (WKZO AM/FM) — Tuesday, the Michigan Liquor Control Commission (MLCC) announced that it has issued emergency suspensions of the liquor licenses and permits for more businesses in the state, including one in Battle Creek.
According to the MLCC, the licensees’ multiple violations of the current Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) Emergency Order on Gatherings and Face Masks include the following:
- allowing non-residential, in-person gatherings;
- providing in-person dining; and
- failure to require face coverings for staff and patrons.
The businesses are located in Battle Creek, Detroit and Flint.
In Battle Creek, the business concerned is Lakeview Lounge, located at 640-642 Capital Avenue SW. Specifically, the Commission issued an emergency suspension order of its Class C, and Specially Designated Merchant licenses and its permit for Sunday Sales (P.M.).
Officials say licensees are strictly prohibited from allowing indoor gatherings, as defined by the MDHHS Gatherings and Face Mask Order, on their licensed premises. Additionally, officials say these prohibited gatherings held without requiring patrons to wear face masks pose an immediate threat to the health, safety, and welfare of the public.
Other businesses receiving suspensions include the following:
- Minnie’s Rhythm Café (Detroit)
- Down the Tracks (Flint)
Down the Tracks and Lakeview Lounge are scheduled to appear before an Administrative Law Judge on January 15 for a virtual hearing via Zoom to determine whether this summary suspension should continue, or other fines and penalties should be imposed.
Since September 2020, the MLCC has suspended liquor licenses of a total of 34 establishments located throughout the state for violations of the Executive and Emergency Orders due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The public can report any suspected non-compliance issue at an establishment directly to their local health department or to the Michigan Liquor Control Commission online.
Reports can also be filed by calling the enforcement hotline, toll-free, at 866-893-2121.
