However, Torres was unhappy that the lounge would open as late as bars are in New Jersey, which is until 2 a.m. on weekends.
“We’re far from that stage yet. I vote aye,” he added.
Lipski recused himself as a deacon of the Archdiocese of Newark, which has jurisdiction over St. Peter’s and Hudson Catholic.
“This is just the first step for the application. I’m sorry he had to go through this. I hope that he can see it through,” Commissioner Joyce Watterman, also the council president, said before voting yes.
“I think the applicant met all the criteria. I understand the concerns,” Langston said.
Ultimately, the application was approved 5-1(1), with Commissioner Peter Horton voting no. Commissioner Dr. Orlando Gonzalez was absent.