SAFFORD — The City of Safford is one step closer to its first microbrewery.
During Monday’s meeting, the Safford City Council unanimously endorsed an application for a Series 7 Liquor License for Retrograde Beer & BBQ Co.
A Series 7 license allows a retailer to sell and serve beer and wine on premises, or off premises in an original container.
However, the license does not allow for the production of beer. The application for a Series 3 Liquor License that permits on-premises production of up to 6.2 million gallons of beer per year will be coming forward shortly.
“It’s just the mailing time from when I got it was after the cut-off time for me to bring that one as well,” said Safford City Clerk Beatrice Driver, “but don’t be confused; at our next meeting I will bring that application for him as well for a Series 3.”
Retrograde Beer & BBQ Co. will be located at 615 S. 5th Ave. in Safford, less than one mile away from Safford Middle School, which would normally prohibit a liquor license being issued for that location. However, the property falls within the Safford Entertainment District, which allows for establishments to hold a liquor license within 300 feet of a school or church.
The building, which previously housed a portion of Richard’s Music, is currently under renovation. According to the liquor license application, construction is expected to be complete by January 2025.
The City Council’s recommendation is now forwarded to the state Liquor Board for final action.
