Liquor license doesn’t receive renewal

IOLA – The Village of Iola board voted for the non-renewal of the class B liquor license for the Thirsty Perch.

The unanimous vote took place June 10 at the Village of Iola monthly meeting.

Sheri Miller, owner of Thirsty Perch, was given a letter after the board approved a motion to go into closed session.

The letter stated: “A motion was made to not renew the applications for Thirsty Perch LLC for a Class “B”/“Class B” Alcohol Beverage License; and Operators License for Steve Steeber,  has passed the Village Board meeting on Jun 10, 2025, pursuant to Wisconsin State Statute 125.12(2)(ag). Reason Wisconsin State Statute 125.04(5)(a)1, Do not have an arrest or conviction, subject to ss.”

The arrest or conviction cited is in reference to an arrest of Steve Steeber, who is listed on the liquor license along with Miller.

The statue also includes the denial of liquor licenses to those with criminal convictions. Currently Steeber has an open OWI case, one with an arrest date of December 3, 2023 and another with an arrest date of March 19, 2023.

In past cases, Steeber was found guilty of False Swearing (class A misdemeanor) in another case, was found guilty of Resisting or Obstructing an Officer (class A misdemeanor) in another case and was charged in 2023 for refusing to take a test for intoxication after arrest.

There will be a hearing June 26 at the Village Hall in Iola, 180 South Main Street, that will be open to the public.

Miller released a statement on her Thirsty Perch Facebook page that has received over 200 reactions, 165 shares and over 120 comments as of June 16.

The statement ends with the following statement:  “Our future is uncertain. An establishment that has been a part of the community for years, that brings business into our village and has been a fun gathering spot for community events, such as the recent Iola Norseman Snowmobile Club lunch, family parties and reunions is in jeopardy. Freedom of speech is a right we all share, punishment and retaliation for exercising that right is wrong and should not be tolerated or condoned. We will find out on June 26 what the future holds for The Thirsty Perch.”

Laura Krogwold, the Village of Iola clerk and treasurer, declined to comment citing safety concerns.

The Waupaca County Tavern League was contacted, they said they are looking into the issue and do not have a comment at this time.

There will be a hearing regarding the non-renewal June 26 at 6 p.m. at the Village Hall in Iola, 180 South Main Street, which will be open to the public.