Georgia- The city of Johns Creek on Tuesday had its first challenge over denial of a liquor license, and it came from a man known for fighting City Hall: John Cornetta.
The City Council voted 7-0 to uphold its staff’s rejection of Cornetta’s application for a liquor license for his nightclub, Equity.
The city maintained that Equity’s own records showed it sold 90 percent alcohol and 10 percent food, well below the city standard of 50 percent food. A high percentage of food ensures that the city won’t be populated by businesses operating exclusively as bars.
“It was pretty black and white,” said Mayor Mike Bodker.
Cornetta didn’t show, but sent an executive assistant who read a prepared statement that said the rules don’t adequately spell out what constitutes “prepared meals” or “food.” He also argued there are no studies that show places that sell more than 50 percent food have less crime or DUIs.
He has 30 days to appeal the council’s decision to Fulton Superior Court.
Cornetta has been engaged in a protracted legal battle with the city over his adult movie store, the Love Shack. The store has closed, but the court fight is continuing.
