Wooly’s is no longer in danger of closing, the city of Des Moines says. But the East Village music venue’s lawyer says negotiations are still underway.
The city released a statement Friday morning saying a request to revoke the venue’s ability to serve alcohol will be removed from the city Zoning Board of Adjustment’s Sept. 26 agenda. The agenda item said the action was being recommended due to the property being a “nuisance” after Des Moines police validated two noise complaints through sound readings.
Without a liquor license, Wooly’s would have be forced to close, Josh Ivey, one of its three co-owners, has said.
News of the planned action against Wooly’s, first reported earlier this week, generated a public outcry, and the city said Friday it had since sat down with the owners of Wooly’s and a neighboring building and “reached a solution that respects the interests of both our local businesses and residents.”
“Our municipal code is designed to be fair and balanced, creating an environment where everyone can succeed,” the city’s statement said. “The intent was never to shut down Wooly’s. They, like all Des Moines local businesses, are essential in creating an environment that attracts residents and visitors alike.”
Real estate attorney Loyd Ogle, who co-founded the Greater Des Moines Music Coalition and has since been hired to represent Wooly’s, said the discussions are still ongoing.
“I cannot confirm or deny that an agreement has been reached,” he said just before noon Friday.
But city spokesperson Peter Zemansky said the city had worked out an agreement with Sam Summers, one of the club’s co-owners. Summers also runs First Fleet Concerts and the Hinterland Music Festival and owns the recently renovated Val Air Ballroom in West Des Moines.
Addison Lathers covers growth and development for the Des Moines metro. Reach her at 608-931-1761 or alathers@registermedia.com, and follow her on X at @addisonlathers.
This article originally appeared on Des Moines Register: Wooly’s no longer at risk of closing after, Des Moines officials say
