The University does not appear to have any interest in creating an environment in which it is not easy to get alcohol. In 2001, the University supported the establishment of a restaurant serving liquor in University Village.

The University leases approximately two-thirds of the building and manages it as a residence hall. A restaurant serving liquor could not have been located in University Village without a zoning change.

The University, despite requests from the neighborhood association and the state representative, refused to object to the zoning change. Former University President Mark Yudof said that it was not a “threat to the welfare of the students” and students already live near establishments selling liquor. This ensured the owner could very easily get the zoning change.

The University should not be in the business of making it easier for students to have access to liquor.