823 N.W.2d 373
Wis. Ct. App.2012Background
- City notified IC Willy's of nonrenewal due to 51 police calls since Oct. 2009, including noise/bass complaints; prior 15‑day suspension for a Girls Gone Wild event; multiple disturbances and minor on premises cited.
- IC Willy's sought judicial review under Wis. Stat. § 125.12(2)(d) and asked for de novo determination of renewal entitlement.
- Circuit court held § 125.12(2)(d) provides certiorari review only, applying Marquette Savings & Loan as controlling.
- The legislature created § 125.12(2)(d) to provide de novo review for license decisions, superseding certiorari expectations.
- The court remands for de novo proceedings to determine if renewal should be granted, directing additional hearings as needed.
Issues
| Issue | Plaintiff's Argument | Defendant's Argument | Held |
|---|---|---|---|
| Whether §125.12(2)(d) requires de novo review or certiorari review. | IC Willy's argued de novo review. | City argued review is certiorari. | De novo review applies; remand for new proceedings. |
Key Cases Cited
- Marquette Savings & Loan Ass'n v. Village of Twin Lakes, 38 Wis. 2d 310 (1968) (certiorari used where no statutory review provision existed (historical context))
- State ex rel. Casper v. Board of Trustees, 30 Wis. 2d 170 (1966) (distinguishes ordinary civil procedures from writs of certiorari)
- Merkel v. Village of Germantown, 218 Wis. 2d 572 (Ct. App. 1998) (limits on certiorari procedures; allows additional evidence under specific four elements)
- State ex rel. Smith v. City of Oak Creek, 139 Wis.2d 788 (1987) (discusses licensing decisions under consolidated licensing laws)
- Highway 100 Auto Wreckers, Inc. v. City of West Allis, 6 Wis. 2d 637 (1959) (emphasizes deference to municipal police power in licensing)