STURGIS, S.D. (AP) A circuit judge has approved an ownership change for the County Line Bar, an establishment north of Bear Butte that has been the focus of protests by American Indians.

The decision is subject to Meade County Commission approval.

Critics of the former owner, Jay Allen, said they would challenge the process before the commission, which likely won't decide for three weeks.

The new owner is Joe Murphy and Target Logisitics of Boston.

In December, the county commission rejected Allen's renewal application for an on-sale liquor license, citing character issues.

Some contractors that did work for Allen at the bar claimed he had not paid them.

In 2006, Indians and others opposed the initial approval of a liquor license to Allen because his campground and concert area is within three miles of Bear Butte, a peak that is sacred to Indians.

Thanks in part to Gary Matthews, KBHB, and the Rapid City Journal (Copyright 2008 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.) APNP 04-15-08 1119CDT | save this article / add to your favorites list