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McAllen files civil actions against 4 more downtown bars

McAllen files civil actions against 4 more downtown bars
3 months 2 days 17 hours ago Tuesday, September 02 2025 Sep 2, 2025 September 02, 2025 10:41 PM September 02, 2025 in News - Local

The city of McAllen announced they’re continuing to prosecute bar owners and operators who  disregard permit requirements.

On Tuesday, the city announced they initiated civil proceedings against four bars — Alibi, Cine El Rey, La Santa, and The Yard — in the downtown area for operating unlawfully without a permit.

It comes after the city said on Friday they are suing three bars — Vandu/PH Roof, Times Two Shot Bar, and Brava Show Bar — for failing to comply with state and city ordinances.

It’s part of changes that are being made in downtown McAllen after two teens were arrested on Sept. 24 in connection with the assault of a police officer in the downtown area.

READ MORE: Teen confesses to assaulting McAllen police officer, records say

McAllen Mayor Javier Villalobos previously said the city is looking into increasing the age limit to enter a bar in the downtown entertainment district.

On Monday, bar operators received $11,115 in fines after entering 34 misdemeanor pleas in McAllen’s municipal court for operating without a special use permit, or violating its conditions.

Businesses with a special use permit must provide adequate security, sufficient lighting, age verification technology, and UV ink use for minors, the city said in a social media post.

RELATED STORY: McAllen suing downtown bars for failing to comply with city permit requirements

According to the post, 38 citations were issued over the Labor Day weekend for fire code infractions, operating without a permit, and non-compliance with SUP conditions.

“Responsible business owners deserve a level playing field, and our residents deserve a safe, vibrant downtown,” McAllen Mayor Javier Villalobos said in a statement. “We will continue to enforce every ordinance necessary to protect our community and ensure that McAllen’s [downtown area] remains a thriving cultural hub for all."

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