Changes to the city’s liquor have revealed different opinions from both aldermen and liquor license holders.

According to minutes from the DeKalb city council meeting on Monday, July 13, the council voted on a variety of changes to the liquor code that had been in discussion for 36 months and had included a special meeting of the liquor commission last summer.

6th Ward Alderman Dave Baker said he voted against the changes because he believes they unfairly target local businesses, many that are included in the 6th ward.

“There were a number of issues that I didn’t agree with,” Baker said. “The raising of fines is outrageous. I’m just afraid it’s targeting students and treating businesses unfairly.”

While businesses will see a raise in fees and fines, it’s what DeKalb business owners will have to adjust to.

“I have to renew [my license] soon,” said Shawn Redzepi, manager of Molly’s Eatery and Drinkery, 1022 W. Lincoln Hwy. “Even if they make it $20,000, we’ll pay for it. If you want to be in business, you have to pay.”

Redzepi has been a Molly’s manager for a year and said he the raise seems steep for a town like DeKalb.

“Who else is paying $10,000? Which town?” Redzepi said.

Despite backlash from the increase, the aldermen who voted for the changes believe it is a step in the right direction.

“The fee increases are based on the fact that they hadn’t been raised in 10 years, the cost of living has gone up and the [licensing fees] need to reflect things like inspection fees,” said Tom Teresinski, 2nd ward alderman. “I think it’s fair.”

Teresinski also noted the extended amount of time the commission had given to these considerations.

“It’s taken a tremendous amound of time [to decide], before I was even on the board,” Teresinksi said. “I think they made a thorough review with a tremendous amount of detail.”

4th ward alderman Brendon Gallagher also voted for the changes and believes they will benefit the city as a whole.

“this was a joint effort between the city’s legal, police, liquour commission and of course local liquor establishments. Those parties took the time to review all aspects of this ordinance to make sure that all interested parties were heard from and discussed,” Gallagher said.

He acknowledged that anyone who feels the wrong decision was made should bring it up again to the liquor commission for further review.

“I am proud of the accomplishments that were made with this ordinance,” Gallagher said.