Feb. 20, 2018 – West Bend, WI – There was a thorough grilling for Boro Buzdum during Monday night’s West Bend Licensing Committee meeting as Police Chief Ken Meuler held a 1-inch folder of information and violations connected with establishments related to Buzdum.
The Licensing Committee was reviewing a Reserve Class B Combination License for Buzdum’s Pub & Grill in Barton, formerly Longbranch Saloon.
Chief Ken Meuler documented a troubled past for Buzdum.
Click HERE to see the 8-page report.
Dist. 7 alderman Adam Williquette said he spoke with Lt. Duane Farrand regarding the liquor license to be contingent on reviewing building permits for the property.
Dist. 5 alderman Rich Kasten had some concerns about the violations at Buzdum’s establishment in Germantown. “I just question if this decision is the right one,” said Kasten.
Dist. 6 alderman Steve Hoogester and Dist. 1 alderman John Butschlick both said they had reservations as well.
City attorney Ian Prust said West Bend Police have been extremely proactive in the enforcement of over-serving violations and following up on OWI offenses.
“I don’t disagree with your interpretation of the situation but it’s not quite there to deny it from a legal standpoint,” said Prust.
The council voted 5-2 to approve the license with Dist. 5 alderman Kasten and Dist. 8 alderman Roger Kist dissenting.
Buzdum currently owns Buzdums Pub & Grill on Maple Road in Germantown.
Buzdum previously owned Sophia’s Pub and Eatery in the Dove Plaza in Slinger. That opened in June 2015 and has since closed.
In 2012 Buzdum purchased the former Players Pub & Grill and opened Spearmint Rhino Gentlemen’s Club on Highway 33 east in the Town of Trenton. That establishment opened in 2013 and closed a couple years ago.
In 2016 the West Bend Common Council did pass a cabaret ordinance which prohibits adult entertainment within the city limits.
Early word is Buzdum is gutting the building on Barton Avenue. He’s expected to open the small corner bar this summer and he will occupy the apartment above.