License decision back to Crivitz board

MARINETTE - A controversial flag will no longer be flying upside down in Crivitiz. Vito Congine Jr. was flying it in protest of having a liquor license application for his supper club denied by the village board.

"I didn't put all this money, time and effort into it, to fail," said Congine Jr.  "I'm trying to help the village. I'm trying create economy, create jobs for people .... Not take away," he added.

Originally, the village cited economic factors and location as the reasons for denying him a liquor license. Congine appealed the decision, which is why the case ended up in circuit court.

On Thursday, Marinette County Judge David Miron ruled the village board must further review Congine's application.

"This court can not order Crivitz to issue a liquor license. Instead, what it can do is remand the matter back to the village board," said Judge Miron.

It's a ruling both sides said they're happy with.

"That's where the decision needs to be made with the village board. State statute says it is a municipal, local concern that's who should be making the decision," said Frank Calvert, the attorney representing Crivitiz.

"I want to show them that I have every intention of working with them. I never intended not to work with them," said Congine.

Crivitz Village President John Deschane said he's encouraging other board members to take a fresh look at Congine's proposal.

"I have full faith and confidence that they will work from here with a clean slate," said Deschane.

Congine said if he's granted a liquor license, he'll consider backing off on possible legal action against the village for taking down his flag without his consent.

"I would like to talk to them about that seriously ... But there would have to be some concessions on their end," said Congine.

The village board said it won't be able to take up Congine's application again until next month.