Alcohol License Review Committee Revocation Hearing: Meeting of June 16, 2026

The City of Madison, Wisconsin Alcohol License Review Committee held a revocation hearing on June 16, 2026, concerning the entertainment license of the establishment Cello. The hearing focused on numerous noise complaints from neighbors and tenants in adjacent residential properties, alleging that amplified music and bass vibrations from Cello significantly disrupted their living and working environments. Testimony included detailed accounts from property owners, tenants, and sound engineers about the impact of the noise, efforts made by Cello to mitigate the disturbance, and the challenges posed by the building's structure. The committee heard from experts about soundproofing measures and ongoing remediation plans, including engagement with acoustical consultants. After deliberation, the committee found that Cello's operation had a substantial adverse effect on the neighborhood's health, safety, and welfare. They voted to suspend the entertainment license for six months with conditions including sound level limits, prohibition of subwoofers, and a 1:00 a.m. daily closing time. The license renewal was contingent on Cello completing soundproofing improvements within the suspension period. This decision balances the need to address neighborhood concerns while allowing the business to continue operating under stricter controls and remediation efforts.