By Kate Reynolds, September 12, 2023
Seneca’s Village Council is considering an amendment to its liquor ordinance. Mayor Jeff Olson, also the Liquor Commissioner, wants to cap the limit of licenses to 12. With a cap is in place, a waiting list would begin for any new liquor license applicants.
“We’ve talked with our business owners and residents who don’t want to see any more bars or video gaming in town,” Olson said.
The council discussed some conditions of the application process. For example, the village should not give a license to any business that is not open.
“I did have to revoke a license for a business that wasn’t open for 90 days,” Olson said. “And there have been times when a business receives a license and never opens. We want to make sure that never happens.”
There are 12 Class A liquor licenses available in the village, and currently, one is available. According to Illinois law, each licensed alcohol-related business (bar, restaurant, etc.) must have a liquor license before a gaming license can be issued. So, for example, if a license is available for Pat Regan, leasing and remodeling the gas station on Main Street, he would get it or be placed on a waiting list if it’s unavailable.
“I think the village should cap our liquor licenses,” Olson explained. “We want to protect the businesses in town, and Seneca only needs so many bars. We want to attract new business, but there’s more than just liquor establishments.”
The liquor ordinance amendment will be on the agenda for a vote during the Tuesday, Sept. 19th council meeting.