Mayor Villalobos warns McAllen bars: Enforcement will continue

McALLEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — Following a report on Friday regarding the City of McAllen suing three bars in the Downtown McAllen area. On Tuesday, the McAllen Municipal Court announced it entered 38 citations against bars in the downtown area.

On Friday, the city announced it had taken action by filing lawsuits against Vandu, Times Two Shot Bar, and Brava Show Bar.

In a previous ValleyCentral report, McAllen Mayor Javier Villalobos said the following statement: “This message goes out to all operators on 17th Street and, in reality, throughout the city of McAllen: there will be more enforcement,” Villalobos warned. “If you are cited, you will have to appear, and no, there is not going to be any passes in municipal court. If we have to shut you down and have to file a suit against you in district court to shut you down, we will.”

On Tuesday, the preferential docket at the McAllen Municipal Court reflected that bar operators entered 34 misdemeanor pleas after allegedly operating without a Special Use Permit or violating its conditions, which resulted in $11,115 in fines.

In court, two bar operators pleaded not guilty and requested a bench and jury trial, and 10 bar operators pleaded no contest and requested a payment plan for their fines.

Additionally, eight bar representatives did not show up to court for the second time, which led the state to request warrants be issued to the no-show defendants. While going through the docket, the state requested to proceed with the Penthouse Rooftop Bar civil actions by sending one more notice to locate the responsible representative.

In addition, once the person has been identified, the state requested that a representative of Penthouse Rooftop Bar come in person to court.

Conditions tied to a Special Use Permit include providing adequate security, sufficient lighting, age verification, and UV ink for minors.

Additionally, the city has filed civil actions against other establishments that were accused of operating unlawfully without a permit. The city is initiating to begin civil proceedings against Alibi, Cine El Rey, La Santa, and The Yard.

Following Labor Day weekend enforcement activity, the city has also issued 38 citations for fire code infractions, operating without a permit and non-compliance with SUP conditions.

“Responsible business owners deserve a level playing field, and our residents deserve a safe, vibrant downtown,” said Villalobos. “We will continue to enforce every ordinance necessary to protect our community and ensure that McAllen’s ECOD remains a thriving cultural hub for all.”

In a news release, city officials stated that they will continue to pursue both civil and criminal penalties to uphold public safety, curb underage drinking, and preserve the integrity of the Entertainment and Cultural Overlay District as a cultural, dining, and entertainment destination.