Neighborhoods Fight to Keep Closed Store from Reopening

In a quiet corner of Flint, residents living near the closed liquor shop on West Court Street are voicing strong opposition to its potential reopening. The building, once known as Cheers Market, has a history that many locals claim is dangerous.

Community Voices

• Glendale Hills Neighborhood Association spoke out during a local press event on Friday, warning that the site has been linked to loitering and crime. They urge it remain closed.
• Councilwoman Tonya Burns accused the mayor’s office of pushing for a reopening, citing past gunshots and loitering around the location. She also notes that she is running against the current mayor in an upcoming primary, calling the reopening claims false and politically driven.

City Stance

• Police Chief Terence Green stated that no city employee has backed the new license. The commission will review any objections, and residents can file comments for consideration in the coming weeks.
• City officials have not supported the move, and the commission will make an independent decision.

Historical Context

• The site previously had a license revoked after police complaints about minors purchasing alcohol and multiple incidents.
• Former city staff and neighborhood members recall the area as once safe but now plagued by crime.

Current Status

• The application to transfer a license (ASF10) from another store to the old Cheers location remains pending.
• The debate centers on whether reopening will restore safety or invite more disorder.

The outcome of the Michigan Liquor Control Commission’s review will shape Flint’s community dynamics in the coming weeks.