Concerns Rise Over Five Points Bars as Liquor Licenses Denied
Columbia, S.C. — In a lively neighborhood known for its bustling nightlife, some community members are raising their voices against the operations of two bars in Five Points. The recent decision by the South Carolina Department of Revenue to deny liquor license renewals for Group Therapy and Saloon has sparked discussions amongst residents, and it’s not just about drinks and dancing anymore.
Community Voices Their Concerns
Residents near the Wales Gardens neighborhood, which borders Five Points, are worried about the impact these bars have on their community life. “One of the reasons we’re litigating the two additional cases is we don’t believe that their primary and substantial business is a service of meals,” explained Dick Harpootlian, an attorney advocating for these concerned neighbors. His statement highlights a central issue at play—the notion that these establishments may not meet the requirements to maintain their liquor licenses.
Harpootlian, alongside other residents, portrays a picture of chaos and disruption. “A number of those bars were serving underage kids, 18-year-olds were drinking $1 liquor shots and becoming grossly intoxicated, rampaging through the neighborhood, destroying property, throwing up,” he expressed passionately. A particularly startling account from him mentioned how he once found a young person passed out under a truck not far from his own home. Conversations within the community illustrate a growing concern about safety and maintaining the neighborhood’s quality of life.
Legal Back-and-Forth
As the legal proceedings unfold, both Saloon and Group Therapy maintain their stance as responsible establishments. Bakari Sellers, the attorney representing the bars, stands firm: “Saloon and Group Therapy are vital good corporate citizens, and I anticipate that, when the judge looks at the facts as they did previously, we will be successful again.” Sellers emphasized his belief in the bars’ compliance with state liquor laws and their commitment to operating within those guidelines. “We’re going to evaluate the businesses that they stand. We have no questions about their compliance,” he added.
What’s At Stake?
Under South Carolina law, a crucial requirement for obtaining a liquor license is that an establishment must primarily serve meals. This is where the dispute lies. “We’re going to give the courts an opportunity to find those terms, everything from meals to primary and determine whether or not we can have these so-called dive bars, which is pure bars. You can’t count chips and peanuts as meals,” Harpootlian noted, clearly outlining one of the legal arguments in play.
Meanwhile, in the midst of this brewing controversy, it’s essential to know that, according to the Department of Revenue, both bars can continue to operate during this time until the protest is officially heard in court. This seems to offer some temporary relief to both bar owners and patrons who enjoy the vibrant culture of Five Points.
Looking Ahead
As this situation continues to unfold, community sentiment remains a mixed bag. Some are enjoying the nightlife that Five Points has to offer, while others are advocating for a quieter, safer environment. The resolution of this dispute will certainly shape the character of the community, and its friendly atmosphere hangs in the balance.
It’ll be interesting to see how this legal battle plays out. Will the bars keep their licenses or face restrictions? As both sides prepare for what’s next, the upcoming court hearing will be a critical moment for Five Points—and the broader Columbia community.
Stay tuned as we continue to follow this developing story and bring you updates on the neighborhood’s vibrant, yet contentious, scene!
