A stop work order has been issued at a Lehighton business for operating without having a valid liquor license.

Zoning for Lehighton Borough revoked the business zoning permit for the Pleasure Lounge, 201 N. First St., to operate as a “Bar and Restaurant” and its occupancy permit.

Borough police Chief Troy Abelovsky posted late Wednesday afternoon on the Lehighton Borough Police Department’s Facebook page that a meeting was held on Tuesday with Barry Isett & Associates, the contracted zoning company for the borough.

“Information was provided to zoning on the deplorable conditions of the business, the numerous incidents originating as a result of the business dating back to 2023, the illegal liquor license status and no current health inspection certificate issued by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania,” Abelovsky posted. “Zoning for Lehighton Borough then revoked the businesses zoning permit to operate as a “Bar and Restaurant” and their Occupancy Certificate.

“An official “Stop Work” order was issued for the business and posted to the front of the building. The Lehighton Borough Police and zoning departments will continue to follow up as needed.”

A search warrant was executed early Monday morning at the business for operating without having a valid liquor license.

The Lehighton Borough Police Department posted Monday afternoon on its Facebook page that at around 2:15 a.m., officers of the Lehighton Borough Police Department assisted the Pennsylvania State Police — Liquor Control Enforcement Division, with the execution of a search warrant at the Pleasure Lounge, 201 N. First St.

“As part of a joint, ongoing department investigation, information was received which identified the above business, as operating without having a valid liquor license,” Abelovsky said. “During this operation, a preliminary estimate of $8,000 worth of alcohol was confiscated and numerous administrative fines are set to be imposed on PA Liquor Control Enforcement Unit.”

Abelovsky said a similar search warrant was executed back in April by the Lehighton Borough Police Department and the Pennsylvania State Police — Liquor Control Enforcement Division.

“That evening, over $25,000 worth of alcohol was confiscated, and fines were imposed by the PLCE,” he said. “In 2023, Lehighton Borough Police Department received 61 service-related calls, and over 40 service calls this year, at the Pleasure Lounge.”

Abelovsky said call ranges from loud music complaints to active violent disturbances with weapons.

“Safety for residents and visitors to Lehighton Borough is paramount,” he said. “The Lehighton Borough Police Department will continue to work with the PA Liquor Control Board to designate this business as a “Nuisance Bar.” If this business is classified as a “Nuisance Bar,” it would prohibit the owners from renewing their currently expired liquor license.”