Tampa City Council Sets New Hearing on Southern Brewing's Liquor Request

Whether a home-brew supplies shop can sell cocktails, in addition to beer and wine, when it moves to 4500 N. Nebraska Ave. will be reopened for debate at the city council’s Aug. 18 meeting.

A special-use permit allowing beer and wine sales at new location was set for approval today following nearly two hours of discussion June 9.  But lawyer Mark Bentley, representing shop owners Brian and Kelly Fenstermacher, asked that the permit be modified so the business can sell mixed drinks as well.

“They want to be able to have corporate events, birthday parties,” Bentley said, adding, “They’re putting their life savings into this business.”

He said any liquor sales would end at 11 p.m. to address neighbors’ concerns about the microbrewery becoming a bar.

That’s a substantial change from what was approved on June 9, some council members noted. The permit language approved earlier this month expressly prohibited liquor sales.

“I think we should hear from the public,” councilwoman Mary Mulhern said.

Bentley said his clients would be willing to pay for a new hearing so that the public can be notified. Representatives from , Southeast and Old Seminole Heights civic associations attending today’s meeting said they supported that request.

The next hearing will be the first item on the agenda; it’s scheduled to start at 6 p.m.

In the meantime, council members unanimously approved a separate special-use permit so the business can add a parking lot.

Gary Ellsworth of South Seminole Heights Civic Association spoke in support of that request.

“Parking is a key component to having successful businesses in Seminole Heights,” he said.

Southern Brewing & Winemaking plans to sell beer-brewing and winemaking supplies at its new shop, and offer classes on site. It also plans an outdoor beer garden.