The Boulder City Beverage Licensing Authority convened on August 2, 2025, to deliberate on a contentious application for the transfer of a restaurant liquor license from S.R. Cucina, Inc. to a new owner, Ravi Rockey, for the establishment known as Dagavi Cucina. The meeting highlighted significant concerns regarding prior violations of liquor laws by the previous management, which ultimately influenced the board's decision-making process.

Kristin Tighe, a licensing official, presented evidence indicating that the previous owner had sold alcohol without the necessary temporary liquor license, which was not issued until May 15, 2025. This breach of protocol raised alarms within the licensing division, prompting the board to consider whether to approve or deny the transfer application. Tighe noted that the previous owner had been repeatedly informed that selling alcohol prior to receiving the license was illegal, yet sales occurred between May 5 and May 8, 2025.

During the meeting, Rockey acknowledged the challenges faced during the transition, citing misunderstandings with former employees who had left the establishment. She expressed her commitment to ensuring compliance with liquor laws moving forward, stating that she had hired new staff who would adhere to the regulations. However, board members expressed skepticism about her ability to manage the business effectively, especially given the previous violations.

The board engaged in extensive deliberations, weighing the implications of granting the transfer against the need to uphold legal standards. Some members argued for a denial of the application to set a strong precedent against violations, while others suggested conditional approval contingent on the submission of a comprehensive alcohol policy and training plan. Ultimately, the board voted to deny the transfer application, emphasizing the importance of compliance with liquor laws and the need for accountability.

In a subsequent motion, the board also voted to revoke the temporary liquor license held by Rockey, reinforcing their stance on the necessity of adhering to legal requirements. The decision underscores the authority's commitment to maintaining regulatory standards within the community and highlights the challenges faced by new business owners in navigating existing legal frameworks.

As the board concluded the meeting, it was clear that the path forward for Dagavi Cucina would require a fresh application for a liquor license, potentially under a different classification, should Rockey wish to pursue the matter further. This outcome serves as a reminder of the critical importance of compliance in the beverage licensing process and the potential consequences of violations.