The City of Cincinnati has decided to object to the liquor permit renewal for a Camp Washington business due to complaints from residents and an excessive number of police calls for service. Residents raised concerns to city council members about the incidents that required police response at Legacy Lounge, including reports of public urination and disturbances late at night. Sydney Prigge of the Camp Washington Urban Revitalization Corporation highlighted the impact on tenants in the area, stating that noise and disturbances were prompting people to move out.
Despite objections from residents, owners and staff of Legacy Lounge defended their business, stating that they have only been open since January and should not be held responsible for the actions of the previous establishment in that location. Stephanie Harper, who works at Legacy Lounge, explained that she has taken steps to improve safety at the venue, including hiring security and installing security cameras. However, Sgt. Zach Sterbling of CPD’s Vice Squad expressed concerns about the response to the shots fired call and the reluctance of security at Legacy Lounge to cooperate with police.
The city has decided to delay its decision on the liquor permit renewal to allow the owners to address the issues raised by residents. A final decision will be made on April 16th, after which it will go to the Ohio Division of Liquor Control for further review.