Is Another Bar Necessary in Port Washington?

Troy Koput has found many obstacles in the path to open tries Deville's Lounge in Port Washington — from building code violations to a long police call history at the former Foxys Bar location to an outright recommendation from the police chief that a liquor license be denied.

City Administrator Mark Grams has also suggested that officials are looking for a different type of business to fill the spot.

"How many (bars) does a city of our size have to have?" Grams said, adding he would prefer a restaurant-type bar where the primary focus would be on food to open in the now vacant space.

To attempt to answer such a question, here's a look at how many liquor licenses exist in Port Washington and surrounding areas compared to the population of each municipality. These totals include all licenses, such as those for a retail establishments or bar-restaurant.

• Port Washington: There are 35 licenses approved for the city, with a population of 11,201 — that makes 1 license for every 320 people.
• Grafton: There are 30 licenses approved for the city, with a population of 11,392 — that makes 1 license for every 380 people.
• Saukville: There are 24 licenses approved for the city, with a population of 4,424 — that makes 1 license for every 184 people. 
• Cedarburg: There are 46 licenses approved for the city, with a population of 11,417 — that makes 1 license for every 248 people.

Population data from the U.S. Census Bureau from 2010. Alcohol license data taken from a Green Bay Press-Gazette database on statewide license holders.

Numbers aside, many of those in support of Deville's Lounge have argued that Foxys Bar fit a niche for the younger crowd — and with that bar gone, there is now a gaping hole that needs to be filled.

"Between Saukville and Port were are 'we' the late 20 and 30 year old and up group suppose to laugh and talk and 'Dance' and 'UNWIND' with (our) friends on a Friday and Saturday night when there is NO night club around," user sadparent commented on an article about the city opposing the bar. "Are we to go to the 'Railroad Station' were fights usually occur ... or are we to head to Milwaukee to give them (our) business?"

A public session will be held to discuss whether to grant Deville's Lounge the needed alcohol license at the Port Washington Common Council meeting at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday at City Hall.

Does Port need another bar?

Tell us why or why not in the comments.