Update on Brookland’s Finest Liquor License Battle

12th and Jackson Street, NE

Update yesterday on Brookland’s Finest from the Brookland listserv:

“For your information, I attended a protester standing hearing this morning in the matter of the Brookland’s Finest liquor license. The purpose of the hearing was to identify who the valid protesters actually are as the matter proceeds.

Two churches had submitted protest petitions. Both of their petitions were dismissed for lack of standing as churches do not have standing to protest unless they are immediately adjacent. The two churches were First Church Christ Holiness at 1219 Hamlin St NE and Grace United Baptist Church at 1219 Jackson St. NE.

ANC Commissioner Carolyn Steptoe was granted standing on behalf of ANC 5B, as the ANC has standing to protest as a matter of right.

Three individuals were jointly granted standing as the designated representatives of 53 residents.

So there are two groups whose protests will move forward: ANC 5B and a group of 53 residents.

By contrast, 149 residents in proximity of Brookland’s Finest signed in support by endorsing a negotiated settlement agreement between the restaurant and the community.

Next steps: there will be a mediation session in early August to attempt to resolve differences. If not resolved, the matter will be heard at a full protest hearing open to the public on August 14th at 4 pm.”