The DeKalb Liquor Commission modified the keg registry proposal Tuesday night.

DeKalb’s proposal originally set the permit requirement for the purchase of more than 16 gallons, which is more than one keg.

As the meeting progressed, members decided to make the registry set for 15.5 gallons, which is equal to one full keg, or a half barrel. Local alcohol distributors in attendance had no objections to this proposal.

There was a concern that people would purchase smaller amounts of beer at various stores, effectively buying the same amount as in a larger keg, but avoiding registration requirements.

“My concern is that people are going to be going from establishment to establishment buying kegs,” said Cory Warren, deputy liquor commissioner. Many distributors agreed.

Commissioners proposed to inform surrounding cities, such as Sycamore, of the keg ordinance and to be aware of customers coming from DeKalb.

The system would involve a sticker being placed on the keg as a form of deposit. When returning the keg, the deposit, proposed to be $30, would be returned to the purchaser.

The sticker would contain registration information, such as the buyer’s name, date of birth, permanent address, address of the event, date of the event and expected attendance.

“I propose we just register them all,” said Liquor Commissioner Gerald Philips of the kegs. “What we are trying to do is give the officers something to work with.”

Earl Sullivan, owner of Sullivan’s Tavern, 722 E. Lincoln Highway, asked if all of the registration information would stay with the distributor or go to the city.

With the registration, police would be able to track the source of the alcohol if needed. But even with a tag, police would have to call every distributor in the area unless a center registry, like the city’s records, was available.

The night ended with the decision to keep the liquor license classifications of the 17 current license holders in DeKalb the same.

The next meeting will be Nov. 6.