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Consideration of a Conditional Use Permit in the Midtown Mixed Use (MID-MIX) district at 2289 Ludington Avenue to establish a wine bar, Tim Walsh, applicant
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Submitted by:
Art Pi?on
Department:
Development
A. Background/Options
The applicant is requesting a Conditional Use Permit to allow an existing wine and art instruction facility, known as The Local Makery, located at 2289 Ludington Avenue within the Midtown-Mixed Use (MID-MIX) zoning district, to operate as a wine bar during non-instruction hours. Currently, the facility is licensed to serve alcohol during scheduled wine and art instruction sessions. While art instruction facilities are a permitted use within the MID-MIX district, operating as a wine bar requires a Conditional Use Permit.
The proposed hours of wine bar operation are Monday through Sunday, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 AM, outside of scheduled instruction activities. The floor plan includes a workshop area, wine bar and service counter, back office, and a front-facing outdoor patio area adjacent to Ludington Avenue.
The required public hearing was held at the September 30, 2025 Common Council meeting with no one appearing to speak in favor or opposition. The Council meeting video is attached.
B. Staff Comments
Planning/Zoning Division
The minimum required parking requirement for a drinking establishment is 8 paces per 1,000 square feet and no onsite parking spaces are provided. In accordance with WMC 24.11.010.B.4.b, staff believes a parking reduction is warranted due to:
* Proximity of Public Transit: Currently there are two (2) Milwaukee County Transit (MCTS) stops located within 150 feet of the project site (North Avenue).
* On-Street Parking: On-street parking is available on Ludington Avenue adjacent to the project site.
* Bike & Pedestrian Facilities: All surrounding streets contain sidewalks on both sides of the street and there is a crosswalk adjacent to the project site. North Avenue contains bicycle lanes on bot...
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