CITY COUNCIL AGENDA ITEM
ACTION REQUESTED:
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Adopt a resolution approving the waiver of certain liquor license and tobacco license renewal fees for 2020-2021.
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DEPARTMENT: Legal Department
SUBMITTED BY: Jennifer Lutzke, Senior Assistant City Attorney
BOARD/COMMISSION REVIEW:
On June 4, 2020, in response to the global health pandemic, the Liquor Commission unanimously approved waiving certain liquor license and tobacco license renewal fees for 2020-2021.
BACKGROUND:
On March 13, 2020, a national emergency was declared in the United States concerning the COVID-19 Outbreak. Thereafter, the Illinois Governor, J.B. Pritzker ("Governor") issued a series of executive orders requiring residents to stay at home and completely or partially suspending non-essential business operations. On March 16, 2020, the Governor suspended service of food and beverages for on-premises consumption; restaurants and bars could sell food and drink for carryout. On-premises consumption was restricted until outdoor seating was permitted on May 29, 2020. As of June 26, 2020, restaurants and bars can offer indoor dining with groups of 10 or less, with tables spaced 6 feet apart in seated areas and with standing areas at no more than 25% of capacity.
On March 18, 2020, the Liquor Commissioner, Mayor Chirico ("Mayor") suspended the City's liquor license renewal process and associated late fees. The Mayor also issued Executive Order 2020-03 ("EO-3"). EO-3 allows Class A - Restaurants, Class B - Restaurant and Tavern, Class J - Hotel/Motel and Tavern, and Class P - Manufacturer to sell packaged alcoholic liquor and mixed cocktails for delivery and carryout. The Class P - Manufacturer was included to allow licensees to conduct third party-delivery. EO-3 also allows Class B - Restaurant and Tavern license holders to sell growlers consistent with the state law.
Moreover, the pandemic impacted certain cigarette and tobacco dealers. In response, the Mayor issued Executive Order 2020-06, ...
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