Despite protests, city has yet to receive an application
Abo’s Pizza on the Hill is in the process of getting a license to add beer to their menu.
“For many, many years, Abo’s patrons have been asking for a beer with their slice. We feel the time has come to give them that opportunity,” said Abo’s Manager Barbara Huntting.
However, as Deputy City Clerk Ann Large explained, Abo’s has not officially filled out an application.
“We actually have not received an application. Abo’s needs to complete an application for land use. They will then hold a neighborhood meeting and listen to the concerns of the neighbors,” said Large.
Slowly but surely, more establishments on the Hill have been applying for alcohol licenses because businesses have found many Hill customers enjoy having a drink with dinner.
Huntting said there are residents of Boulder who fear Abo’s will turn into just another bar, though some students believe the benefits of Abo’s serving alcohol outweigh any negatives.
“[It would be] just another place to drink and be social on the Hill,” said Peter O’Brian, a CU student.
Abo’s does not have a bar atmosphere. The layout of Abo’s is designed to be, first and foremost, a pizza parlor.
If the restaurant can obtain the rights to stay open past 11 p.m. they then can apply for a liquor license.
“Land use review is separate than a liquor license,” said Large.
If Abo’s does meet all the requirements for getting a land use review and liquor license there is a possibility that they will stay open much later.
“Liquor law allows you to serve alcohol till 2 a.m.,” said Large.
At the moment, there is no outspoken opposition to Abo’s getting a license to serve alcohol. It is just a matter of filling out the paperwork and holding the town meeting to comply with the residents of Boulder.
“Everyone is invited to voice their opinion; residency and age do not matter. Those who cannot attend our neighborhood meeting can e-mail, call or write to Charles Ferro, the city planner in charge of our case, to voice their opinion in this matter,” said Huntting.
