Villa Park liquor commission reviews renewals as businesses seek downgrades after fee increases

The Villa Park Liquor Control Commission on Nov. 25 reviewed pending liquor license renewals and a wave of category change requests as businesses respond to recently increased local fees.

Julie, a village staff member, told the commission she had received “about 10 so far” renewal applications and said several business owners have contacted the office to ask how the fee changes affect their licenses. A staff liaison explained the Village maintains a 'places for eating' tax spreadsheet for October showing some missed payments; “the red boxes are indicating that we did not receive a payment for that month,” the liaison said and noted unpaid accounts will affect renewal eligibility.

Why it matters: Commissioners said the fee increases are prompting businesses to remove gaming options or downgrade from full‑pour to beer‑and‑wine licenses to avoid higher costs. Staff said downgrades and gaming removals already requested include, according to the renewal files, establishments listed in the packet such as Euros Express, Mariscos Miramar, Highview, Chuck E. Cheese, Simons, Epic (banquet to quad L), Lunar, the Curling Club, Moore Brewing and others; staff also said some businesses had not yet responded and that staff will follow up by phone.

Commissioners discussed timing and enforcement: the liaison confirmed the municipal renewal deadline is the 12th of the month and said licenses will not be issued unless fees are fully paid. Commissioners asked staff to ensure future meeting packets include minutes and supporting reports in advance so members can review them before meetings.

State license interaction: staff cautioned that the state requires the municipality’s license before issuing a state license; if the village were to revoke or delay a municipal license, a business could be required to restart the state process, which staff said the commission generally wants to avoid.

Votes and next steps: The commission approved the Oct. 28 minutes by roll‑call vote earlier in the meeting with all members present voting yes. Staff will continue outreach to businesses that have not responded about their renewal category and payments, and the commission plans to monitor outcomes through the next renewal season to see whether additional ordinance changes are needed.

The commission is scheduled to meet Dec. 23; commissioners may request date changes if the holiday timing presents conflicts.