By Andrea Earnest | Bugle Staff
The Downers Grove village council held a first reading of an ordinance amending the sale and promotion of alcohol at its July 19 meeting.
Specifically, the council discussed amending rules related to “Happy Hour” and server training requirements.
According to board documents,
In July 2015, Gov. Bruce Rauner signed a law that amended the Illinois Liquor Control Act by allowing establishments to utilize Happy Hour promotions under certain conditions.
Per state law, a Happy Hour promotion must follow certain conditions., including not changing the initial discounted cost of drinks during the promotion time; ensuring that the discount period does not exceed 4 hours per day or 15 hours per week; the drink cannot be discounted between 10 p.m. and closing time of the establishment; and notice of the Happy Hour promotion is posted on the premises of the establishment or the website of the establishment at least seven days prior to the promotion.
The Liquor Commission of Downers Grove recommended approval of a Happy Hour ordinance.
According to board documents, the commission felt that adopting the same regulations as the state would reduce confusion and allow for easier enforcement. It would also allow Downers Grove businesses to remain competitive with other businesses in nearby communities that allow Happy Hours.
Police Station Renovation
The council also discussed a possible resolution that would authorize a contract with Williams Architects for architectural and engineering services for the planned expansion and renovation of the Downers Grove police station.
According to board documents, the actual cost of this contract could be between $843,000 and $977,000 depending on the cost of construction.
The plan for the police station calls for an addition of 11,000 square feet, along with a complete interior renovation. The cost of the project will between $11.9 million and $14.6 million.
