A proposal for a conditional liquor license in Waterloo sparked significant discussion during the City of Waterloo Board of Adjustment meeting on July 22, 2025. The key point of contention was the proposed hours of operation, with the applicant agreeing to close by 11 PM, a decision that seemed to sway some board members in favor of the license.

Board member Mr. Smith expressed his support for the business, highlighting the backing from local residents. “I honestly don’t see why we couldn’t agree to have a liquor license with the restriction of closing at 11,” he stated, emphasizing the importance of community support in the decision-making process.

Concerns were raised regarding past service calls to the area, with some board members noting that many incidents were not directly related to the store. However, the discussion suggested that the presence of individuals loitering near the store could be contributing to local issues.

The meeting underscored the balance between supporting local businesses and addressing community safety concerns. As the board deliberates, the outcome of this proposal could set a precedent for future liquor license applications in the city. The next steps will involve further review of the community feedback and the implications of granting the conditional license.