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Minneapolis Council Sends Hotel Liquor Renewals to Final Vote After Sparse Hearing

City staff maintain the hotels are in compliance, narrowing the grounds for using liquor licenses to address complaints tied to ICE agents.

Overview

  • The council voted 11-2 to forward renewals for the Canopy and the Depot to a Feb. 19 final vote without recommendation.
  • A motion to delay for further investigation failed 6-7 after members split over due process versus business harm.
  • The city attorney and licensing staff said the hotels comply with liquor laws and noted any action must tie to licensed activity.
  • Only seven people testified and none offered first-hand accounts, including a hotel worker who disputed claims of ICE contracts or overpouring.
  • Council members cited cancellations, reduced hours and planned layoffs at the hotels, while the licenses remain valid unless withdrawn or denied.