LINCOLN PARK, Mich. -- A widely contested topless bar in Lincoln Park opened its doors Tuesday for the first time after years of court battles.

Last week, the state Liquor Control Commission approved a liquor license for Larry Flynt’s Hustler Club located near Interstate 75 and West Outer Drive.

The decision came after years of court battles, delays and opposition from members of the community. The case eventually ended up in federal court.

In October, a judge threatened the city would be fined $12,000 a day if the commission did not approve the club’s liquor license, because the state had already approved it.

A group of pastors who are against the new business said they are disappointed by the decision.

“I mourn something in the community that isn’t good. I don’t like that, but I will tell you this, that I’m comforted in the fact that we’re going to still reach out and care,” said Pastor Frank Julian of Faith Christian Community Church.

The Larry Flynt's Hustler Club Web site touts it as one of the state's largest strip clubs.