A Minocqua brewery will remain open as a dispute over zoning and permitting for the business continu [View all]

Minocqua Brewing Company will remain open after Oneida County grants permit extension
The brewery known for its Democratic Party-themed beers has been embroiled in a yearslong dispute with local ofBy Rob Mentzer






Updated: Friday, August 11, 2023, 3:20pm


A Minocqua brewery will remain open as a dispute over zoning and permitting for the business continues.
https://www.wpr.org/minocqua-brewing-company-remain-open-after-oneida-county-grants-permit-extension




This comes after an Oneida County committee voted last week to revoke the license for the Minocqua Brewing Company, which would have forced it to close. On Wednesday, the same committee granted the business a six-month extension as the yearslong battle between the business and local authorities continues.

The business is associated with a Democratic super PAC, and owner Kirk Bangstad has vocally claimed that it is being targeted because of his political views. In a statement, Bangstad said the brewery "will fight and win in court" as well as "in the court of public opinion."

Among the issues in dispute is a proposal to put parking on land adjacent to the brewery that the town of Minocqua says the business does not own. Bangstad has also sought permission to add an outdoor beer garden, but said the parking dispute may also affect where the brewery could place that beer garden. Bangstad has said local zoning rules are being selectively enforced. .................................