The new application
Elyria City Council voted Monday to request a state hearing on a liquor permit application for 645 Taylor St., where the former Bistro on Taylor Street operated. SLT Bistro LLC, formed July 26, applied for a permit at that address on October 8. Cleveland.com reported that state records name Samantha Ward as the company’s registered agent and sole disclosed owner.
Police Chief James Welsh, Law Director Amanda Deery and Ward 1 Councilman Andrew Lipian urged the state to hold a hearing, according to Cleveland.com. The outlet reported that Ohio Department of Commerce spokesperson Reagan Reetz said the Division of Liquor Control had received Elyria’s objection and would schedule a hearing.
The previous permit and city objection
The state denied the renewal sought by the former permit holder, Xanmar M77 LLC, on April 2. Cleveland.com reported that the state cited undisclosed ownership interests, building and safety violations, disregard for the law and the business’s impact on the neighborhood. The denial followed Elyria’s objection to the renewal; The Chronicle-Telegram reported that the city cited criminal complaints, disturbances affecting neighbors and code violations in its objection: The Chronicle-Telegram’s report.
Police documented fights, shootings, a stabbing and overcrowding at or near the business between 2022 and 2025, according to Cleveland.com’s account of the state order. The outlet also reported that residents and neighboring businesses had complained about noise, parking problems and unruly patrons. Xanmar M77 LLC did not appeal the denial, and its permit is closed, Cleveland.com reported. Deery said the property is owned by Xanmar Realty LLC, according to the outlet.
What the hearing will cover
Cleveland.com reported that permit hearings are being scheduled several months in advance because of a backlog. The hearing will be held by videoconference and open for public viewing, but only the parties involved may participate or present evidence, the outlet reported.
Ohio law allows the Division of Liquor Control to refuse a permit or a transfer of ownership on specified grounds, and requires it to refuse a transfer of location if certain conditions are found, according to the Ohio Revised Code. State law also requires a political subdivision’s objection to a permit renewal to be made by resolution, state its reasons and request a hearing.
