Council clears liquor license for Barracks Bar after applicant and neighbors speak

Phoenix — The council considered Item 26, an ownership and location transfer liquor license application for the Barracks Bar at 4601 N. 7th Avenue. Staff said the police department originally recommended denial based on background concerns tied to a prior owner who has since been removed from the application; after that removal the police recommendation changed to approval and staff recommended council take "no recommendation," allowing the state liquor board to proceed or hold a hearing if protests remain. Applicant Matthew Moody spoke about his personal stake in running the bar and neighbors noted parking concerns; counsel and staff clarified that a city "no recommendation" allows the state to issue the license 15 days after council action unless the state holds a hearing. The council voted to make no recommendation, allowing the state process to continue.