ABC Board Renews East Dupont Moratorium

The ABC Board renewed the East Dupont Moratorium on November 20 with some modifications.  They are relaxing the cap on restaurants but keeping the cap on taverns and nightclubs.  They cited the proximity to residences as the principal reason why they are unwilling to end the moratorium altogether.  This historic neighborhood's character should be preserved and not be impacted by additional licenses other than new restaurants stated the Chair of the Board. 

ABC Board Listens to Neighbors

On May 22 the ABC Board listened to neighbors regarding the proposed moratorium at 14th and U Street. They heard 18 witnesses (largely affected neighbors) who were in favor of the moratorium and a handful of witnesses who were opposed (largely the affected ANCs--1B, 2B, and 2F).  The one ANC that is largely affected is 1B, while only 5% of ANC2B and less than 1% of ANC2F are affected by the proposed 1800 foot radius.

Neighbors argued that late night noise and parking issues were affecting them as well as the cumulative effects of having over 120 licensees in their neighborhood.  They also argued that many businesses had left the neighborhood and had been replaced by alcohol serving establishments.  Moreover, they presented petitions signed by over 450 neighbors who live within the proposed zone.

The ABC Board will deliberate and issue a ruling within 90 days.  They can accept the 1800 foot radius or modify it by downsizing it to 1200 feet or 600 feet as allowed by the ABRA regulations.  They can also reject the petition submitted by the Shaw-Dupont Citizens Alliance. 

Other community organizations that represent affected residents have expressed their support for the moratorium and they include the Meridian Hill Neighborhood Association and the Dupont Circle Citizens Association.

ANC 2B Hosts Listening Session on Proposed Moratorium

The Dupont Circle Advisory Neighborhood Commission's Alcohol Policy Committee will host a listening session on the proposed liquor license moratorium for 14th and U Streets. The Dupont ANC (2B) will vote to support or oppose the moratorium petition at its May 8th meeting. This listening session is an opportunity for residents and business owners to speak directly to the 2B Alcohol Policy Committee, which may formulate a recommendation for consideration by the ANC.

2B Moratorium Listening Session
Wednesday April 17, 2013
7:00 - 9:00 p.m.

Chastleton Cooperative Ballroom
1701 16th Street NW
(Location tentative and will be confirmed next week)

This is not your only chance to have your voice heard! You can also email your ANC Commissioner directly or send a note to the Alcohol Policy Committee with your thoughts on the proposal.