I am writing on behalf of the Lansdowne Improvement Association, Inc. regarding a petition submitted by applicants Robert Maith and Seung Chul Yang regarding Renee's Lounge at 3911 Hollins Ferry Road.

The abovementioned applicants are requesting a change of liquor license classification from Class B (restaurant) to Class D (tavern - beer, wine and liquor).

LIA leadership is adamantly opposed to this change.

Throughout Baltimore County, it is generally expected that liquor licensees shall operate their establishments in such a manner as to avoid disturbing the peace, tranquillity, safety, health and quiet of the neighborhood.

The association believes that Renee's Lounge, through the course of multiple owners and management, has yet to uphold its responsibility of being a good neighbor and continues to regularly jeopardize the well-being of the greater Lansdowne community.

Renee's Lounge has an extensive verifiable history of crime and disturbance to the surrounding community and is a frequnet subject of calls for police.

At a March 22, 2010, hearing, the Board of Liquor License Commissioners authorized a license transfer contingent upon certain conditions being met, including but not limited to:

• outside lighting

• security cameras

• armed security from dusk to closing

• presence of owners during hours of operation

After consultation with the leadership of Baltimore County Police Department Precinct 1 (Wilkens Station), specifically Captain John Spiroff, the association believes that in the event that a change of class is approved:

• that these conditions be enforced without fail

• that the Board of Liquor License Commissioners remain responsive to the community's concerns

• that future incidents at this location be thoroughly investigated and the licensees sanctioned, with the imposition of fines, suspension, or even the revocation of their license.

We hope that the Board of Liquor License Commissioners will agree that a change of license classification for Renee's Lounge is not in the best interest of the surrounding communities.

Brian Bailey, president

Lansdowne Improvement Association