A pivotal discussion unfolded at the City of Milwaukee's Licenses Committee meeting on July 18, 2025, as the committee deliberated on the application for a Class B tavern license for Taqueria El Adreo. The applicant, Hermelindo Martinez Perez, initially sought to operate until 2 AM but faced significant pushback from local residents concerned about noise and safety in their densely populated neighborhood.

During the meeting, community members voiced their objections, emphasizing that the introduction of late-night alcohol sales and amplified music would disrupt the character of the area. Kevin Solis, a senior outreach manager at a nearby nonprofit, articulated the community's stance, stating, "The introduction of late-night alcohol... raises serious concerns about noise, safety, and disruption to the community."

In response to community feedback, Martinez Perez expressed a willingness to compromise, ultimately agreeing to amend his application to close at midnight instead of the initially proposed 2 AM. This adjustment was met with cautious approval from the committee, which recognized the importance of balancing business interests with community concerns.

The committee also approved an amendment to remove a jukebox from the application, further aligning the business plan with neighborhood expectations. The final decision to grant the tavern license, with the amended closing time, reflects a collaborative effort to foster a business that respects the needs of the local community while allowing for new economic opportunities.

As the meeting concluded, the Licenses Committee underscored the significance of community engagement in the licensing process, setting a precedent for future applications in the city.