Council approves liquor and gaming license increases for proposed QC Fun Factory, applicant must secure neighbor consents

The Moline City Council voted Jan. 20 to approve ordinances that would increase the city’s available Class B tavern liquor licenses and the number of video gaming terminals for a proposed entertainment venue, QC Fun Factory, at 1624 Avenue.The ordinances were requested by Ritesh Singh (R Core Group LLC d/b/a QC Fun Factory). Council discussion made clear the liquor license will not be granted for immediate operation until the applicant obtains the required consents from a majority of nearby property owners—explained in the code as 27 of 52 parcels, a mix of residences and businesses. "So granting this does not mean that it will immediately open up," a city attorney said.Councilmembers expressed concern about approving the license before neighbor feedback is available. Councilmember Schmidt asked if the city is at risk of short‑term federal compliance issues in existing code language; staff said they are addressing concerns and will work case‑by‑case to avoid violating federal law. The applicant addressed the council in person and said obtaining consents would be "pretty quick within 2 weeks," and explained he is planning an investment of more than $1,000,000 and expects to generate 10+ jobs, adding he does not want to purchase land until licensing is assured.The council also approved a separate ordinance to increase the number of video gaming terminals at the same address; staff clarified the neighbor‑consent requirement applies to the liquor license only and not separately to gaming terminals. Council members asked about timelines and school‑distance restrictions that apply to certain license classes; staff identified those restrictions are found in the original code and class‑specific limitations remain relevant.The motions were approved by the council. Next steps: the applicant must secure the required neighbor consents and proceed through remaining permit and licensing steps before the venue can open.