Despite Protests, New Liquor Store in South L.A. OKd

There may be too many liquor stores in South Los Angeles, but one businessman persuaded the city Planning Commission on Thursday that he is responsible enough to open the first new one there since last year’s riots.

Despite attempts by inner-city residents to reduce the number of liquor outlets, the Los Angeles Planning Commission reversed an earlier decision and gave William Rumple the right to sell beer and wine at his tiny mini-mart.

Other merchants have won the right to rebuild their damaged stores, and some supermarkets have been opened since the riots. But officials said Rumple is the first to get permission for a liquor store that did not exist before April 29, 1992.

The surprise 3-2 vote, reversing the commission’s earlier rejection of Rumple’s application, came after a succession of witnesses--customers of a cluster of business he has run at the site for four decades--described him as a classic good neighbor.

“This shouldn’t be about whether Mr. Rumple is a nice guy,” said Councilman Mark Ridley-Thomas, who spoke against the application. “The question is the quality of life in the community. There’s plenty of beer and wine already.”

The decision also angered residents who have been fighting to prevent the rebuilding of liquor stores destroyed during the riots.

“I’m just appalled,” said Sylvia Castillo, a leader in the Community Coalition for Substance Abuse and Treatment. “Everyone agrees that Mr. Rumple is likable, but this means one more liquor store for the community to deal with.”

Rumple, 57, has long been a fixture at 10964 S. Main St., where he has an appliance shop and car detailing business, with the small market attached. The parents of his wife, Myrna, opened the businesses in 1947.

Several commissioners praised his track record and commitment to the community and noted that the Rumples had agreed to conditions--such as banning drinking on the property--to prevent loitering and other problems around the store.

The liquor sales were supported by Commissioners Lydia Kennard, Suzette Neiman and Valeria Velasco. Opposing the application were Commissioner David Louie and Commission President Ted Stein.

Rumple said his case should not mean everyone who wants a new liquor store should get one.

“My case is different,” he said. “I’ve been in this community. I’ve been through two riots. I want to stay here.”