Naperville To Issue Five Outdoor Liquor Licenses

NAPERVILLE, IL -- Downtown Naperville can expect to see alcohol sold on public sidewalks amid an expansion of the city liquor laws. Tuesday night, the expansion was approved by a 5-3 vote.

The Daily Herald reported that the five available permits, which cost $500 each, will allow establishments to serve alcohol in enclosed areas. City officials must approve the layout of the outdoor areas, including the fencing and furniture.

City Council members Patty Gustin, Rebecca Boyd-Obarski and Paul Hinterlong voiced concerns of additional exposure to alcohol in a "kid-friendly town," the Herald reported.

"I don't want Naperville to become a Bourbon Street," Gustin said.

Though, supporters of the expansion say it will be highly regulated. Alcoholic beverages will be served to customers by wait staff who have completed a training program. The expansion calls for a five-foot span of sidewalk to remain free and clear for pedestrians.

Police will closely monitor calls for service in the downtown area to see if there are any changes in the frequency of such crimes as fighting and disorderly conduct. City officials will also review the crime statistics. Each license lasts a year, and must be voted on to be reapproved, so any problem locations may not be able to keep their licenses.

"The one-year cap is a huge safety net," said council member Kevin Coyne, according to the Herald. "If this turns out to be a problem, then we simply won't do it anymore."

Four restaurants have already expressed interest in the licenses, including Front Street Cantina, Sullivan's Steakhouse, the Craftsman by Two Brothers and Quiubo.

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