Public Hearing Monday on Liquor License Request For ‘Pickled Loon’

ST. CLOUD - The St. Cloud City Council will hold a public hearing on Monday night on a liquor license request for a new bar in the former McRudy's Pub building.  However, city staff is recommending the request be denied.

The four owners listed for the new bar at 715 West St. Germain Street, called "The Pickled Loon" are Christopher Jost, Michael Ahrens, Rhiannon Johnson, and Michale Illies.

City Attorney Matt Staehling is recommending denial because Ahrens had been employed at the former McRudy's since 2002.  He also says the property is not eligible for a liquor license because of unpaid fines and utility charges.

Police Chief Blair Anderson is also recommending denial, because Ahrens was formerly employed by McRudy's.

The Health Department's Lisa Schreifels recommends the license be withheld until a walk-in cooler is replaced.

Monday's night's city council meeting starts at 6:00 p.m. at City Hall.

McRudy's -- along with RumRunners Bar -- closed in early June.  The city council denied their request to renew their liquor licenses on June 24th.