The owners of the store were seeking city permission to sell carry-out liquor at 1924 Mannheim Rd. They were the latest in a number of small convenience stores that have sought city permission to sell carry-out beer and wine. About a year ago, aldermen departed from their long standing ban against allowing such sales by permitting the owners of a new store at Oakton Street and Wolf Road to sell the merchandise.

Last week in an exclusive page 1 story in the Journal, it was reported that the owner of a nearby day care center was opposing the liquor license contending that it is too close to her business where more than 80 children are cared for on a daily basis.

Two aldermen, Tom Becker (6th) and Dick Sayad (4th), cited information they recently received from Police Chief Jim Prandini about crime in the area as reason why they oppose the proposal.

"This is probably one of the most improper places to put a liquor store," said Becker. "It will put more of a burden on our police staff."

"After talking with the police chief about crime in the area, packaged liquor would not be a plus for that area," said Sayad who added that he had previously supported the proposal.

Chief Prandini said that allowing more liquor sales in the area, where crime is a problem, would "just be adding fuel to a volatile situation."

The vote to deny the liquor sales request was approved 8 to 0.