Racine Council Grants Conditional Beer License to Dream Social Lounge Amid Concerns

RACINE, Wis (WRJN) – The Racine City Council on Tuesday approved a conditional “beer-only” liquor license for Dream Social Lounge at 1518 Washington Ave., capping a contentious debate over public safety and neighborhood impact.

The council voted 12-3 to grant the Class B beer license with strict conditions, including limiting the lounge’s capacity to 150 people and imposing a closing hour of midnight.

April Wright put in the application for the establishment. She told council members the omission of a past misdemeanor related to a resolved firearm incident was a misunderstanding. During public comment, Wright said she is a CCW permit holder, was pulled over, told police she had a gun, but not the physical CCW card. “I was honest with them. They didn’t search my vehicle or nothing. I gave them that information because I’m an honest person.” Wright stressed her intent to run a responsible business.

Nearby residents and business owners raised concerns during public comment. They talked about potential overcrowding, parking shortages and disruptions, noting the building’s 400-plus capacity and limited parking.

In other council news, starting in June, all council meetings will temporarily move to the Racine Public Library due to City Hall renovations.